§ LORD GLYNasked Her Majesty's Government what is the present British policy, political and commercial, in regard to the Middle East, whether any negotiations are now taking place that could lead to the renewal of diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia broken off 1050WA since November, 1956, and how far have satisfactory relations been established with other Gulf States where British interests are of special importance.
§ THE JOINT PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS (THE MARQUESS OF LANSDOWNE)Her Majesty's Government wish to see conditions of peace and stability prevail in the Middle East and they are endeavouring steadily to increase trade and to further their relations with all Governments in the area.
As my right honourable and learned friend stated in another place on April 8, it has been made clear on a number of occasions that Her Majesty's Government would welcome the restoration of the traditional friendly relations with Saudi Arabia, and our views on this matter have been conveyed to the Saudi Government in numerous exchanges through various channels over the past two years.
As regards the other States bordering on the Persian Gulf, Iran Is of course one of our allies in the Baghdad Pact and we have normal relations with the Government of Iraq. We have especially close and friendly relations with Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the Trucial States.
House adjourned at eight minutes before six o'clock.