HC Deb 30 January 1961 vol 633 cc586-7
17. Mr. Donnelly

asked the Lord Privy Seal the nature of the representations that he made to the United States Government regarding the United Nations discussion on colonialism.

Mr. Ormsby Gore

We maintain close consultation on many matters with the United States Government, including, of course, matters which arise in the United Nations. In view of the confidential nature of such consultations, I have nothing to say with regard to the specific subject raised by the hon. Gentleman.

Mr. Donnelly

Will the Minister of State explain why, having swallowed the disastrous record in Cyprus and Suez, the Government are straining at this particularly innocuous resolution of the United Nations? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this farcical fixation with fuedalism is doing long-term damage to our country?

Mr. Ormsby Gore

I do not know that I accept much of that little lecture from the hon. Member. If, however, he would read some of the resolutions, he would find, for instance, one paragraph which states: Convinced that the continued existence of colonialism prevents the development of international economic co-operation, impedes the social, cultural and economic development of dependent peoples… If the hon. Member thinks that that is a good description of British colonial policy, I do not agree with him.

Mr. Healey

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell us whether the Foreign Secretary was consulted by the Prime Minister before he took his deplorable decision to telephone the President of the United States and ask him to vote against his convictions on this matter?

Mr. Ormsby Gore

This matter was dealt with in Questions by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister last week and I have nothing to add.