HC Deb 13 October 1969 vol 788 c18
9. Mr. van Straubenzee

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether Her Majesty's Government was formally represented at the swearing-in of the Prince of Spain.

Mr. M. Stewart

There was no formal representation since there were no formal invitations to this ceremony. Our Ambassador was present in the Diplomatic Gallery.

Mr. van Straubenzee

Would the right hon. Gentleman care to reflect that, despite the delicate nature of present relations—about which no one could feel more strongly than I—there may be advantage in a moderating influence by a possible future Head of State in Spain who, after all, has the advantage of having an English grandmother?

Mr. Stewart

I think that goes a little further than the Question. I am sure that what our Ambassador did on this occasion was right.