HC Deb 08 April 1963 vol 675 cc917-8
62. Mr. Skeet

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he will publish the terms of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation injunction forbidding the export of large diameter pipe to the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics; if he will specify the member countries of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation who agree therewith; and if he will give the actual terms of Her Majesty's Government's reservations.

The Lord Privy Seal (Mr. Edward Heath)

No, Sir. Her Majesty's Government are not in a position to publish the texts of confidential North Atlantic Treaty Organisation decisions. Nor are they in a position to disclose any reservations which may have been attached to them by member Governments.

Mr. Skeet

Is my right hon. Friend aware that Herr von Hase indicated that, while certain reservations were made by several countries early in the peace, all nations concurred in the ultimate decision that large diameter pipes ought not to be exported to the Soviet Union? Would it not be wise in these circumstances to have the unanimous verdict of N.A.T.O.?

Mr. Heath

Our position is clearly known and my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade informed the House about it recently.

66. Mr. Rankin

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he will make a statement on the outcome of his meeting with the United States Under-Secretary of State on the sale of steel pipes to the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.

Mr. Heath

East-West trade was one of the subjects which I was able to discuss with Mr. Ball during his visit to Europe. The value of such discussions would, however, be greatly reduced unless their confidential character were respected.

Mr. Rankin

In view of the widespread comment which has been made on what would appear to be the interference by the United States of America in a trade which is regarded as legitimate, would not the right hon. Gentleman give us a little more information than he has just given? Did the United States Undersecretary of State oppose this steel-pipes treaty between Britain and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics?

Mr. Heath

There was no question of interference by the United States Administration. This is one of the subjects which it is perfectly legitimate for allies to discuss together. Her Majesty's Government position remains exactly as I have stated it.