§ Q1. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Prime Minister if, in his forthcoming discussions with President Kennedy, he will suggest ending the agreement for Polaris bases in Great Britain as a step towards easing international tension.
§ Mr. HughesWill the Prime Minister consider putting before President Kennedy the point of view that, as a result of the Polaris base, the west of Scotland has now become one of the 682 most dangerous places in the world? [Laughter.] Hon. Members may laugh, but it is true. Is he aware that the Polaris base has increased tension in the world and has stepped up the arms race, and that the 50 megaton bomb has made the Polaris approach obsolete? Does he not think that he would be doing a good service this Easter if he put these facts soberly and realistically before President Kennedy?
§ The Prime MinisterI am afraid that I could not accept all the conclusions which the hon. Member has reached. The Holy Loch arrangement strengthens Western defence and I think that it is generally recognised as so doing.