HC Deb 02 March 1960 vol 618 cc1219-20
50. Mr. Swingler

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what decisions have been taken by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation Council about the lease of bases in Spain; and to what extent these decisions provided for occupation of such bases by German troops.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. John Profumo)

None, Sir.

Mr. Swingler

In view of the statements which have been made by the Foreign Secretary since this Question was put down, is the Foreign Office now aware of the widespread opposition to the location in Spain of any military bases for the West? Will the right hon. Gentleman now reconsider giving an assurance that the British delegate at N.A.T.O. will oppose any proposal that N.A.T.O. bases should be located in Spain?

Mr. Profumo

I have nothing to add to the very clear statement which my right hon. and learned Friend made the other day, except, perhaps, to say that I understand that that subject is being discussed by the N.A.T.O. Council today and that it is possible that the Council will be issuing a communiqué after its meeting.

Mr. Swingler

Is the Minister of State aware that the Foreign Secretary's statement on the subject was not clear, and that he refused to answer the question? Will he give an assurance that we will oppose the location in Spain of military bases for N.A.T.O.? May we have an answer to that supplementary question?

Mr. Profumo

If the hon. Gentleman will look at the answers which my right hon. and learned Friend gave on that occasion, he will find that his Question was adequately covered.