HC Deb 02 February 1961 vol 633 cc1182-3
42. Mr. Brockway

asked the Prime Minister if he will propose to the forthcoming Conference of Commonwealth Prime Ministers the adoption of a charter of democratic rights and personal freedoms which would become the political basis of the Commonwealth.

The Prime Minister

No, Sir. As my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary said on 7th April, 1960, the strength of our Commonwealth association is in great part due to the absence of this type of formal, institutional machinery.

Mr. Brockway

Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that in present world conditions it is desirable that an objective in principle should be given to the Commonwealth? Does not he further agree that it cannot just exist on past sentimental associations or economic interests, when they are challenged by new loyalties and new economic pressures? Would not the United Kingdom be able to contribute a great deal to this transitional world if it stood for democratic rights irrespective of race, and for human liberties?

The Prime Minister

Some quite difficult questions will be arising in the near future. I think that we are agreed on the purpose we have in mind. What we have to study is the best way to make that purpose effective.