HC Deb 20 July 1959 vol 609 cc871-2
57. Mr. Warbey

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in order to create a favourable atmosphere for the Foreign Ministers' Conference and the forthcoming Summit Conference, he will propose to the United States of America and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics a standstill on the construction of missile bases outside the territories of those countries for the duration of the Conferences, and for such further period as may be agreed.

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

No, Sir. I do not believe that such a proposal would have the effect the hon. Member suggests.

Mr. Warbey

Will the Minister of State take into account the fact that the Opposition has put forward the suggestion that the building of missile bases should be suspended while negotiations are proceeding with the Soviet Union? Would not this be a gesture which might make a great contribution towards creating a more favourable atmosphere for the success of the negotiations?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

I am aware that the Opposition put forward a proposal of this kind a year ago, but I have not heard much about it since.

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