HL Deb 01 June 1948 vol 156 cc16-7

2.37 p.m.

LORD LYLE OF WESTBOURNE

My Lords, I beg to ask His Majesty's Government the question standing in my name on the Order Paper.

[The question was as follows:

To ask His Majesty's Government, what precise arrangements were made for consulting the Dominions about the Five Power Pact, whether each Dominion has since specifically agreed to participate in that Pact, and whether any Dominion has made any reservation, and if so, of what nature.]

THE LORD PRIVY SEAL (VISCOUNT ADDISON)

In accordance with normal practice in matters of foreign policy, the other Governments of the British Commonwealth have been kept closely informed as to the policy of the United Kingdom Government in the matter of the Five Power Treaty, and account has been taken of any views which they have expressed. Since no question has arisen as to other Commonwealth countries acceding to the Treaty, the last part of the question does not arise.

LORD LYLE OF WESTBOURNE

Could we have an assurance from His Majesty's Government that each Dominion had specifically agreed to participate before the Pact was finally concluded?

VISCOUNT ADDISON

As I explained to the noble Lord, they are not participants in the Treaty as it stands. He may be fully assured, however, that we shall use the utmost possible care, as we always do, to keep them in touch with what we are doing.