§ 36. Mr. John Wellsasked the Lord President of the Council if he will refrain from moving resolutions to give Parliamentary gifts to newly emerging countries, in view of the fact that over one fifth of the recent recipients of these gifts no longer have Parliamentary government, and instead if he will seek to establish a small fund from which suitable tokens of Parliamentary esteem may be given to countries, which respect Parliamentary democracy on national anniversaries and at similar times, without formal resolution.
§ Mr. CrossmanNo, Sir.
§ Mr. WellsCould the right hon. Gentleman consider the second part of my Question more closely, even if he can do nothing about the first part? As he and the House will be aware, it was most unfortunate that at the 50 years' independence celebrations of Finland hon. Members had to put their hands into their own pockets to make a modest contribution because there was no fund available for a presentation?
§ Mr. CrossmanThe particular question the hon. Member raises is a difficult one. It might set a precedent to say we would give gifts to anybody inside and outside the Commonwealth for every kind of celebration. His proposal would, I think, require legislation. But I will give it my most careful consideration.