HC Deb 16 February 1961 vol 634 c1759
41. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Prime Minister whether it is now the policy of Her Majesty's Government that he and the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs should participate in political discussions with heads of Governments and Foreign Ministers of the Six.

The Prime Minister

It is the policy of Her Majesty's Government to facilitate and improve political co-operation between European countries in every way. Accordingly, if we were to receive an invitation from the Six Governments to take part in meetings with them for the purpose of political consultation we would certainly be disposed to accept it.

Mr. Henderson

Will not the Prime Minister agree that the difficulties which prevent this country from joining the Common Market do not apply when it comes to the closest possible political co-operation between Her Majesty's Government and the Six?

The Prime Minister

I think that that follows from my reply.