§ 48. Mr. Rankinasked the Prime Minister whether, during his forthcoming visit to the United States of America, he will discuss with President Kennedy a joint policy to enable world food shortages to be relieved by extension of farm technology, to eliminate disease, and to enable the poorer nations to benefit from new knowledge.
§ The Prime MinisterThese are aspects of the world economic situation which might certainly come within the discussion of international problems which I hope to have with President Kennedy.
§ Mr. RankinHas the right hon. Gentleman observed that in his State of the Union Message the President of the United States said that he is prepared to issue an invitation to the Soviet Union and to scientists of all countries to engage in such a programme as is indicated in the Question? Does the Prime Minister include China in all countries? If he would include China in that category, will he urge that point of view on President Kennedy?
§ The Prime MinisterIt is difficult enough to answer supplementaries on statements which I am supposed to have made. I hesitate to answer supplementaries on statements attributed to the President.
§ Mr. RankinI am asking the right hon. Gentleman if he himself would include China in the expression "all countries"
§ The Prime MinisterI cannot be asked to interpret a statement which I did not make.
§ Mr. F. Noel-BakerWill the Prime Minister take the opportunity of discussing vigorous and generous participation in the Freedom from Hunger Campaign of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations by both Britain and the United States?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir, and, as I think the movement for refugees showed last year, we have a very good record in these matters.