HC Deb 20 March 1962 vol 656 c202
Q2. Mr. Thorpe

asked the Prime Minister what representations were made to him by the Iranian Prime Minister, when in London, relating to the defence of Iran; and whether he will make a statement.

The Prime Minister

I would refer the hon. Member to the joint communiqué issued at the end of Dr. Amini's visit to this country.

Mr. Thorpe

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that Iran is a vital part of the Western Alliance, and that we have a great moral responsibility for maintaining her integrity? Has he considered associating C.E.N.T.O. with N.A.T.O. for the joint defence of this territory, possibly with a joint committee of chiefs of staff?

The Prime Minister

The second part of that supplementary question raised a very wide subject. As for the first part, I gladly take this opportunity of expressing again what we expressed during the Iranian Prime Minister's visit—our deep interest in and sympathy for the work that Iran is doing and our determination to help in every possible way. I am happy to feel that, perhaps as a symbol of that, the C.E.N.T.O. Ministerial meeting will be held in London at the end of next month.