16. Mr. R. C. Mitchellasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will make representations to the Government of North Vietnam concerning the continued presence of North Vietnamese troops in Laos and Cambodia.
§ Sir Alec Douglas-HomeThe North Vietnamese Government know that we wish to see the Paris agreement fully implemented. I think it right to wait for the result of the talks between the United States and the North Vietnamese in Paris before deciding what diplomatic action should be taken. I understand that a communiqué is being issued on this matter this afternoon.
Mr. MitchellWill the Government consider strengthening our diplomatic representation in Hanoi so that any protest we wish to make on this subject can thereby be strengthened?
§ Sir Alec Douglas-HomeYes. I opened discussions with the North Vietnamese at the Paris Peace Conference. I am considering matters concerning timing.