§ Q4. Mr. Zilliacusasked the Prime Minister whether, on the occasion of Dr. Erhard's visit to London, he will seek to discuss Her Majesty's Government's policy on the reunification of Germany on the basis of the fact that reunification is possible only within existing frontiers and a zone free of nuclear weapons, foreign forces and military alliances.
§ The Prime MinisterMy forthcoming discussions with Chancellor Erhard will be confidential and I cannot anticipate what subjects will be discussed.
§ Mr. ZilliacusI fully appreciate this point, but could not my right hon. Friend confirm that the policy of disengagement which is summarised in this 947 Question remains the policy of Her Majesty's Government and is in fact the only basis on which it would be possible to reach agreement with the Soviet Union on the reunification of Germany?
§ The Prime MinisterMy hon. Friend has his own views about what exactly would be the basis for negotiations with the Soviet Union. I have always said, and I think the House would agree, that the reunification of Germany, which we all support, is dependent on the establishment of a détente and improved relations with the Soviet Union. Exactly what is implied in getting a détente I should not like to forecast. I do not believe in entering into negotiations by saying what you have to give away before you start the talks.
§ Lord BalnielIn the light of the failure to make a general advance in disarmament, is not the demand of Germany for a greater share in nuclear strategy likely to increase? In his discussions with Dr. Erhard, will the Prime Minister advance the Atlantic Nuclear Force or the American proposal for consultation envisaged by Mr. McNamara's Committee?
§ The Prime MinisterI should have thought this discussion is bound to involve discussions about nuclear problems within N.A.T.O. We ourselves have given full support to American proposals for consultation on the lines of the McNamara Committee.