§ Q7. Sir Knox Cunninghamasked the Prime Minister when he intends to issue invitations for the Commonwealth Prime Ministers' Conference in 1968; and in what period of the year it will take place.
§ Mr. George BrownI have been asked to reply.
The time and place for Prime Ministers' meetings are for collective decision by all member countries of the Commonwealth. No decision has been taken.
§ Sir Knox CunninghamNow that there is no possibility of us joining the Six, at least during the political life of the right hon. Gentleman, should we not consult with the Commonwealth as a matter of urgency? Where is the Commonwealth to go in future?
§ Mr. BrownDecisions as to when the Commonwealth Prime Ministers meet are of course for the Prime Ministers to take. Our Prime Minister is of course one of those who would take part in such a decision. No decision has yet been taken, and this is not something that we can summon. As to the length of my political life, the hon. and learned Gentleman must not take the gloomy view that I am as near the end of it as he is.