HC Deb 20 May 1968 vol 765 cc7-8
6. Mr. Walters

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what action was taken by Her Majesty's Government in the United Nations Security Council on the resolution regarding the decision by Israel to proceed with a military parade through Jerusalem.

Mr. M. Stewart

Her Majesty's Government made their disapproval of this parade quite clear by voting for the Security Council Resolutions of 27th April and 2nd May.

Mr. Walters

Is not a militaristic display of this kind in a city that does not belong to Israel to be thoroughly deplored?

Mr. Stewart

I think my first Answer made that clear.

Sir B. Janner

Would my right hon. Friend consider why, when Jordan violated all the rules of decency in that part of Jerusalem which she had annexed, the Security Council did not take a similar step in respect of Jordan?

Mr. Stewart

I would agree that this matter of the parade in Jerusalem is only one aspect of a very great problem in which there is a great deal to be said on both sides. The solution of the problem depends upon the removal on both sides of a great weight of suspicion. We deplore this particular action because it was liable to give colour and weight to these suspicions.

Mr. Hugh Fraser

Would the Foreign Secretary instruct his representative not to indulge in the passing of totally absurd resolutions which will never be carried out?

Mr. Stewart

No, Sir. I do not believe that if we treat the United Nations in that way we shall get the growth in the rule of law which is essential in the long run if world peace is to be preserved.

Forward to