HL Deb 29 March 1949 vol 161 cc784-5

4.27 p.m.

THE LORD PRIVY SEAL (VISCOUNT ADDISON)

My Lords, it may be convenient if I intervene at this point to make a short statement similar to that which is being made by the Prime Minister in another place this afternoon. It is to this effect:

"The Commonwealth Prime Ministers will meet in London on April 21. The Prime Ministers of Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, Pakistan and Ceylon will be able to attend. The Prime Minister of Canada is doubtful whether he will be able to come himself, but, if not, Mr. Pearson, Secretary of State for External Affairs, will represent Canada. Matters not fully discussed at the October meetings of Prime Ministers involving certain constitutional questions will be considered at a short series of private meetings. They are expected to last a week."

VISCOUNT SWINTON

My Lords, I am sure your Lordships are much obliged to the Leader of the House for making that statement. Obviously it would be inappropriate to make any comment on it, except to say that I am sure we must all be extremely glad that so many Prime Ministers have found it possible, at comparatively short notice, to represent their countries at this Conference; and also to say, that we wish it well. I assume that when the Conference has finished its work a full statement will be made, as I think was done after the last Commonwealth Conference; and, of course, that Parliament will have ample opportunity to discuss any recommendations or conclusions which may emerge from that Conference. Is that so?

THE EARL OF PERTH

My Lords, from these Benches I welcome the statement that has been made by the Leader of the House. We consider it good news, and we can only wish the Conference all success.

VISCOUNT ADDISON

My Lords, in reply to the question of the noble Viscount, it is difficult to anticipate but I have no doubt that a statement will be made at the conclusion of the Conference. Of course, I cannot say at this stage what that statement will contain; that will be for the Conference to decide. I have no doubt, however, that it will be of great interest.

VISCOUNT SWINTON

And Parliament will have full opportunity of discussing it?

VISCOUNT ADDISON

I have no doubt that that will be the case. I have not been able to consult my colleagues, but I should think we may take it that that will be so.