HC Deb 11 May 1959 vol 605 cc849-50
28. Mr. Warbey

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is yet in a position to publish his reply to the Soviet Note proposing the reconvening of the International Commission for Supervision and Control in Laos.

Mr. Profumo

We have not yet received the reaction's of the Soviet Government to our Note of 7th April. As my right hon and learned Friend said on 8th April, we are not prepared to disclose its contents until those reactions have been received.

Mr. Warbey

Why are the Government being so coy about this matter? Are they trying to avoid some awkward decision? Can the Minister at least say whether the Government favour steps towards the reconvening of the International Commission for Laos?

Mr. Profumo

I cannot reveal what are the contents of our confidential discussions at the present time. Laos is now a sovereign and independent Government whose views on all these things have to be taken into account.