HC Deb 18 July 1966 vol 732 cc32-3
39. Mr. Dodds-Parker

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will give an assurance that the publication of "Special Operations Executive in France" was not timed to follow the present discussions with the French authorities over the future of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation.

Mrs. White

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

I confirm that my correspondence with Ministers shows what the hon. Lady has said, that this date is purely coincidental; but is it not disgraceful and dishonourable of the Prime Minister to answer a Question through a Departmental Minister and attempt to disown the author of the book, who has written a most excellent book from incomplete records, when it is an official publication by Her Majesty's Stationery Office?

Mrs. White

I am sorry, but I do not follow the hon. Gentleman's question. I appreciate that he tried to put a Question to the Prime Minister and was refused, so he may have a grudge on that account, but there was no connection whatever between the publication of this book and the unilateral declaration by France on her position in N.A.T.O. I do not see the connection.