§ 25. Mr. Stratton Millsasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what steps he is taking to publicise abroad the majority view of the British people regarding the campaign for nuclear disarmament.
§ Dr. Charles HillThe reasons for our defence policy, and the support that is given to it, are effectively made known by the Overseas Information Services.
§ Mr. Stratton MillsIs there not a certain amount of information that the events at Holy Loch and the Aldermaston marches are being taken rather seriously by the politically unsophisticated in the United States of America? Is there not also a certain amount of evidence that the Peace Ballot in the 'thirties and the Oxford Union debate were also taken very seriously abroad, particularly by Nazi Germany? Will my right hon. Friend consult certain right hon. Gentlemen opposite about publicising in the United States the activities of the campaign for democratic Socialism?
§ Dr. HillI think there was a time when these campaigns were seen out of perspective in certain countries overseas. I think they are now seen in correct perspective, particularly since the speech of my right hon. and noble Friend the Foreign Secretary on 16th June.
§ Mr. John HallCould my right hon. Friend say on what information he bases his statement that these things are now seen in proper perspective, because that is not the information which reaches me?
§ Dr. HillI have a steady supply of information from overseas, and I am giving my opinion based on that information.
§ Mr. S. SilvermanCan the right hon. Gentleman say just how many people there are in this country who are in favour of this country using nuclear weapons first?
§ Dr. HillNot without notice. I should prefer first to take the collective view of the party opposite.