HC Deb 26 April 1971 vol 816 cc32-3
43. Mr. Hugh Jenkins

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether, as Co-Chairman of the Geneva Conference, he will now seek to prevent the further slaughter of non-combatants by American forces in Vietnam.

Sir Alec Douglas-Home

As Geneva Co-Chairman I intend to continue my efforts to promote a peaceful settlement in Vietnam which will put an end to all killing. It is the Communist refusal to co-operate in peace talks that is blocking progress to a settlement.

Mr. Jenkins

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that there is now such considerable revulsion in the United States against this war that recent public opinion polls have shown that a very large majority are in favour of immediate, unconditional withdrawal? In these circumstances, will he not renew his endeavours to play some part—about which he can talk publicly—to produce a peaceful solution to this long-drawn out and horrible war?

Sir Alec Douglas-Home

I do not accept the hon. Member's interpretation of opinion in America, but, leaving that aside, I cannot act as Co-Chairman of the Geneva Conference unless the Soviet Foreign Minister will do so as well. So far he has declined.

Mr. Fletcher-Cooke

How many times have my right hon. Friend and his predecessors asked their Co-Chairman to reactivate the Geneva Conference, and how often has that request been refused?

Sir Alec Douglas-Home

A great number of times.

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