HC Deb 17 June 1963 vol 679 cc29-30
41. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will make a statement on the present situation in Laos.

Mr. Heath

The situation in Laos still gives cause for concern. The Prime Minister of Laos and Prince Souphannouvong, the Pathet Lao leader, have agreed to meet on the Plaine des Jarres to resolve their political differences, but arrangements for the meeting are still causing difficulty. Her Majesty's Ambassador in Vientiane, accompanied by the Soviet Ambassador, flew on 14th June to Prince Souphannouvong's Headquarters at Khang Khay to discuss with him the points at issue.

The Communist Pathet Lao remain in possession of the territory they occupied following their recent fighting with the neutralists and breaches of the cease-fire continue. A team from the International Control Commission (composed of Indian and Canadian members) is at present in the Plaine des Jarres where the situation is tense, so that its presence may exert a restraining influence over the area.

Mr. Henderson

In view of the serious deterioration in the situation in Laos, is it not time to consider the reconvening of the Geneva Conference?

Mr. Heath

Machinery already exists for dealing with the situation without reconvening the Conference. What is important is that the machinery should be made to work. My noble Friend the Foreign Secretary was able to agree with the Soviet Foreign Minister to send a further joint message on 29th May to the Prime Minister of Laos, including a copy of the Report of the International Control Commission, in order to carry the work of the machinery further.

Mr. Henderson

Are we to understand from the Minister's reply that, in his view, the International Control Com- mission will be able to function and carry out its responsibilities under the Armistice Agreement?

Mr. Heath

I have already stated that at least two parts of the international Control Commission—the Indians and the Canadians—are already on the Plaine des Jarres to use their influence there and prevent further breaches of the ceasefire.