HC Deb 15 December 1958 vol 597 cc129-30W
10. Mr. Shinwell

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware of the proposal of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation's Parliamentary Conference, recently held in Paris, to hold its next annual conference in Washington; if, in view of the fact that the expenditure incurred by British delegates is borne on the Foreign Office Vote, his consent has yet been obtained; and when he will be able to announce the names of the delegates.

Commander Noble

I understand that the American member of the standing committee of the Conference invited the Conference to hold its next annual meeting in Washington, but that no final decision has been taken. My right hon. and learned Friend's consent to this proposal has not been sought and is not required. He will of course consider the question of expenditure for our delegates together with my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer. As the right hon. Gentleman knows, the selection of British delegates is not in the hands of my right hon. and learned Friend.