HC Deb 26 January 1960 vol 616 cc32-3
49. Mr. Swingler

asked the Prime Minister if, now that a date for a Summit meeting has been agreed, he will propose to the heads of Governments concerned a joint declaration in favour of stopping nuclear tests, ceasing work on the construction of rocket bases, and suspending the distribution of weapons of nuclear capability, in order further to relax tension between now and the conference.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have been asked to reply.

No, Sir. Declarations of this kind are no substitutes for binding international agreements under proper control such as Her Majesty's Government are working for.

Mr. Swingler

Now that at long last a date for Summit talks has been fixed a long way ahead, would not the acting Prime Minister agree that in the coming months everything should be done to create the best possible climate for these Summit talks to reach international agreement? Therefore, will he not suggest—the suggestion is mentioned in the Question—to his right hon. Friend some initiative in the next few weeks to try to slow down or to bring to an end the nuclear arms race?

Mr. Butler

Yes, Sir. We attach the utmost importance to making progress by current negotiations over nuclear tests. It is also our hope that the total disarmament discussion in the 10-Power Disarmament Committee may result in progress towards balanced and controlled international disarmament. It is in these ways that we think we shall show our intentions.