HC Deb 07 April 1960 vol 621 cc563-5
45. Mr. Marquand

asked the Prime Minister whether he will invite the Commonwealth Prime Ministers at their forthcoming conference to consider the desirability of a Commonwealth Convention of Human Rights with an appropriate court of adjudication.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have been asked to reply.

No, Sir. The strength of our Commonwealth association is in great part due to the absence of this type of formal, institutional machinery.

Mr. Marquand

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that that will be regarded generally as a very disappointing reply? If the United Kingdom can adhere to a European Convention on Human Rights, why should not we initiate the establishment of a similar convention for the Commonwealth, especially in view of the fact that three self-governing members of the Commonwealth already have included in their constitutions declarations on human rights? Would not this be a very appropriate moment at which to extend this provision generally, as more and more countries become independent?

Mr. Butler

I do not think that this would fit into the traditional development of the informal character in which the relations between members of the Commonwealth have developed; and, while I understand the sincerity of the views of the right hon. Gentleman, I do not think we can adopt them, nor do I think it would give pleasure to the varied members of the Commonwealth.

Mr. Marquand

Would not the right hon. Gentleman agree that recent events have caused grave misgivings about this? Can we rely upon it and be certain that in future Commonwealth relations, as they now stand, will be sufficient protection for Commonwealth subjects? Will he undertake to look at the matter again? If I brought to see him Colonel Draper, who drew attention to this matter in The Times, would he please study the matter once more?

Mr. Butler

Certainly, if the right hon. Gentleman would bring any of his learned friends or others to see me I should be glad to extend the bounds of my knowledge and education, but I would not be able to subscribe to any idea which would seek to impose on the Government or a fellow-member of the Commonwealth rules of a central court or dictates of any convention.