HC Deb 19 December 1960 vol 632 cc880-1
40. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will instruct Her Majesty's Ambassador in Washington to enter into discussions with the United States President-Elect on joint control of the use of nuclear weapons.

Mr. Heath

No, Sir. Her Majesty's Ambassador in Washington is accredited to the President of the United States, and it would be improper for instructions to be issued in the sense suggested by the right hon. Gentleman.

Mr. Shinwell

Will the right hon. Gentleman take this suggestion into consideration so that at the appropriate stage discussions can take place? Is he not aware that there is considerable misunderstanding in many quarters on this subject of control of nuclear weapons and that there is need for clarification? Will he take that into consideration?

Mr. Heath

Yes, I am quite prepared to take that into consideration, but there has been a large number of cases in recent weeks in the House when my right hon. Friends the Prime Minister and the Minister of Defence have made statements on this subject. The Prime Minister has expressed himself satisfied with the present understanding.

Mr. Shinwell

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that doubts still exist as to whether effective control can be exercised in this regard? Is there not, therefore, a need for further clarification so that all these misunderstandings and doubts can be removed?

Mr. Heath

I shall certainly examine the need for further clarification.