HC Deb 27 July 1961 vol 645 cc602-3
Q5. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Prime Minister whether he proposes to attend the September Session of the United Nations General Assembly as head of the United Kingdom delegation.

The Prime Minister

I have made no decisions on this matter at present.

Mr. Henderson

Will the Prime 'Minister bear in mind the importance of his attending the September Session of the United Nations in view of the deterioration in the international situation? Would not even a short visit afford facilities for informal discussions with the Heads of other Governments, especially President Kennedy in Washington?

The Prime Minister

This is a matter on which, if I thought it right, I should not hesitate to do as I did last year, but what will be the precise position at that time it is rather hard to tell. There may be other meetings of Heads of Governments concerned with the German and other questions.

Mr. S. Silverman

Is it not the contention of the Government that there is an immediate and developing threat to peace over the Berlin situation? Is it necessary to wait until September to see whether it deteriorates further before the United Nations takes any cognisance of it?

The Prime Minister

The Foreign Ministers of the countries mainly concerned are meeting, I think next week. They will no doubt consult together. I am asked whether I can go to the General Assembly. I cannot go to the General Assembly in August because it is not sitting then.