HC Deb 03 May 1965 vol 711 cc898-9
10. Viscount Lambton

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is now the policy of Her Majesty's Government regarding diplomatic recognition of the State of East Germany.

Mr. M. Stewart

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given by my hon. Friend to the hon. Member for West Ham, North (Mr. Arthur Lewis) on 25th March.

Viscount Lambton

While thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his reply, may I ask whether he would not agree that this reply which he quoted is directly contrary to the policy advocated by the Prime Minister in earlier debates when in opposition?

Mr. Stewart

No, Sir.

Viscount Lambton

May I then ask if the right hon. Gentleman will read the debates on 20th December, 1961, and 5th July, 1962, on both of which occasions the Prime Minister advocated a sort of recognition of East Germany?

Mr. Stewart

The noble Lord will find, if he studies those debates, that that was mentioned in connection with a wider settlement and is not to be considered as a proposal on its own.