HC Deb 23 November 1960 vol 630 c1115
28. Mr. Zilliacus

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will give an assurance that Her Majesty's Government will oppose, at the forthcoming North Atlantic Treaty Organisation conference, any proposals to set up a North Atlantic Treaty Organisation nuclear force.

Mr. Heath

No, Sir.

Mr. Zilliacus

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the arming of N.A.T.O. with nuclear weapons would turn it into an offensive force, that the control of the use of nuclear weapons would for all practical purposes pass out of our hands, and that the net result would be to increase the danger of war, and—although this would affect the right hon. Gentleman differently from the way in which it would affect me—that it would greatly increase the opposition in this country to our remaining in this position?

Mr. Heath

N.A.T.O. is already armed with nuclear weapons.

Mr. Shinwell

As the only information we have on this subject derives from the speech of the Supreme Commander, General Norstad, may we have an assurance from the right hon. Gentleman that before any decision is reached by the Government the House will be consulted as to its views?

Mr. Heath

I will certainly consult the Leader of the House about that.