§ 21 and 22. Mr. Swinglerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (1) to what extent Her Majesty's Government, as a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation. were consulted beforehand about the recent statements and broadcasts by General Norstad on the subject of disengagement, the thinning out of forces in Europe, and the possession of nuclear weapons by the German Federal Republic;
(2) to what extent Her Majesty's Government, as a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, are consulted about public statements and broadcasts to be made by the Supreme Commander on subjects which are under discussion between Governments.
§ Mr. Selwyn LloydHer Majesty's Government were not consulted about recent statements by the Supreme Allied Commander. It is not appropriate or practical to suggest that clearance of such speeches in advance should take place by the fifteen member Governments of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation.
§ Mr. SwinglerIs it not highly deplorable that General Norstad, the Supreme Commander, who should be the servant and not the master of N.A.T.O., should make a radio broadcast rejecting outright all proposals for disengagement and the thinning-out of forces in Europe, at a time when N.A.T.O. Ministers were actually discussing what proposals they would put before a Foreign Ministers' Conference and what they would be prepared to agree to at the summit talks? Should not steps be taken to ensure that discretion is imposed upon the Supreme Commander so that he does not jeopardise what the Governments who compose N.A.T.O. are going to initiate?
§ Mr. LloydI assume the hon. Gentleman is referring to General Norstad's remarks on television on 30th March. In my view, that was an admirable speech. I am putting copies of it in the Library and 179 I particularly draw the attention of hon. Members to what General Norstad said about inspection.