HC Deb 13 June 1966 vol 729 cc1026-7
37. Mr. Freeson

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what plans Her Majesty's Government have for neutralising the eastern Mediterranean.

Mr. M. Stewart

None, Sir.

Mr. Freeson

Can my right hon. Friend be satisfied with that kind of action. bearing in mind that the political squabbling between N.A.T.O. and the Warsaw Pact Powers in this part of the world is providing a serious obstacle to democratic and peaceful progress in many countries ranging from Greece right round to North Africa?

Mr. Stewart

When my hon. Friend speaks of neutralising the Eastern Mediterranean, that might, for example, be interpreted to mean the exclusion of Greece and Turkey from N.A.T.O. I do not believe that that would be a wise step to take, or that it would contribute to the stability of the area.

Mr. Sharples

Will the right hon. Gentleman confirm that it is the Government's intention to maintain a British naval presence in that area?

Mr. Stewart

I think that Government policy on this is well known.

Mr. Paget

Can my right hon. Friend tell us whether the covenant of the United Nations does not neutralise not only the eastern Mediterranean but the world?

Mr. Stewart

No, I think not. The Charter of the United Nations, to which I think my hon. and learned Friend refers, provides for regional organisations.