HC Deb 15 November 1962 vol 667 cc560-2
Q4. Mr. Zilliacus

asked the Prime Minister what reply he received from President Kennedy on his communication with him about the partial United States blockade of Cuba.

Q12. Mr. Rankin

asked the Prime Minister what further consultations he has had with President Kennedy in regard to the removal of the blockade on Cuba.

The Prime Minister

In his exchange of letters with Mr. Khrushchev, President Kennedy made it clear that the lifting of the blockade was conditional on the establishment of adequate arrangements through the United Nations to ensure removal of the offensive weapons already in Cuba and to guard against the introduction of other such weapons. Arrangements for United Nations observation and supervision have not yet been made.

Mr. Zilliacus

Does not the Prime Minister recognise that the imposition of this blockade constitutes a resort to force, in violation of the Charter? Is not the Government supposed to support the United Nations? Why does he condone this act of aggression which reduces the Charter to the value of a scrap of paper?

The Prime Minister

That I recognise to be the hon. Gentleman's view. But I think that the majority of the hon. Members in this House feel gratified that the first stage of these negotiations has been successful and hope that the second stage will be equally successful.

Mr. Rankin

Does not the right hon. Gentleman realise that as a result of this blockade the peaceful trading of British ships in the interception area around Cuba is being interfered with by the American Government which demands that clearance certificates should be signed in respect of every ship? Does he realise that the interception area includes part of the Commonwealth? Will the right hon. Gentleman consult President Kennedy to see whether at least his allies could have the freedom of the seas during times of peace?

The Prime Minister

Of course we have been discussing this matter. I am informed that there are no reports of any inconvenience having been suffered. The United States Government are instituting a system of clearance certificates which will be issued by American consuls at a vessel's last port of call. This eliminates the need for searching a vessel when it arrives at the quarantine line.

Mr. Prior

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the support and encouragement which he gave to the President in his momentous and courageous decision was much appreciated by the American people, and did much to help the President in coming to a decision?

The Prime Minister

I think it is the general view of this House that hon. Members are gratified that Britain stood by her allies on this matter, and that the same solidarity was shown by all the members of the N.A.T.O. Alliance

Mr. M. Foot

Can the Prime Minister tell us whether the British Government regard the maintenance of this blockade as being legal or illegal? On the question of solidarity between the allies, has he had confirmation through diplomatic information of the statement made in The Times last Friday that in fact President Kennedy knew of the presence of missiles in Cuba ten days before he made his announcement and that throughout those ten days he failed to communicate with the British Government on the subject? Has that matter been raised by the British Government with the United States Government?

The Prime Minister

That is not a question for me. It is a question which should be put down to President Kennedy. I am perfectly satisfied, and I believe that this House and the country are satisfied, that President Kennedy acted in this matter with both courage and with prudence.

Mr. Speaker

Mr. Zilliacus.

Mr. Zilliacus

Question No. 5.

Mr. Rankin

On a point of order. Is the Prime Minister aware that I am thoroughly disatisfied with his Answer?

The Prime Minister

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Zilliacus

My Question is, what is the policy of the Prime Minister with regard to the Franco-German claim for nuclear weapons controlled by the European Powers in the European Economic Community. The Prime Minister answered "Yes Sir" Does that mean that he is—

The Prime Minister

I am afraid that I was guilty of confusion between the "allies".