Bacteriological Weapons (Draft Convention)

HC Deb 24 January 1972 vol 829 cc955-6

20. Mr. Blaker

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what progress was made at the recent session of the United Nations General Assembly in considering the draft Convention on Bacteriological Weapons.

Mr. Anthony Royle

The General Assembly, on 16th December, approved without opposition a resolution commending the convention and requesting the depositary Governments to open it for signature and ratification at the earliest possible date.

Mr. Blaker

Is my hon. Friend aware that both the present Government and the previous Government deserve credit for the successful efforts made to promote this convention? Has my hon. Friend noted that the convention will involve a significant limitation on the sovereignty of the countries adhering to it and that it is of unlimited duration?

Mr. Royle

Yes, I have noted the points my hon. Friend mentions. The Government are now consulting with the United States and the Soviet Governments about an early date for the signing ceremony.