HC Deb 25 July 1960 vol 627 cc1071-2
32. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will propose at the United Nations that the Arctic zone should be made a neutral area and that all flights to investigate electro-magnetic phenomena in that area should be carried out only under United Nations auspices.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

The hon. Member will remember that in the Security Council in May, 1958, the United States Government offered to join in making the Arctic an inspection area, but the Soviet Union refused.

Mr. Hughes

In view of recent developments, should not Her Majesty's Government proceed with the idea of the Arctic being made a neutral zone? Does the right hon. and learned Gentleman recall that he has been associated with making the Antarctic a neutral zone? Why not the Arctic? Even if the Soviet Government have refused, why not put it to them again?

Mr. Lloyd

If the hon. Gentleman is able to promise me some change in the Soviet attitude, I should certainly consider putting it up again.