§ 70. Mr. Brockwayasked the Lord Privy Seal if he will make a statement on the situation in South-East Asia, with particular reference to Vietnam, Cambodia and Siam.
§ Mr. HeathThe situation in South-East Asia, including Vietnam, is substantially the same as when I spoke in the debate on the Address.
As regards Laos, the Royal Laotian Government have now accepted the proposal by Prince Souvanna Phouma that the three Princes, representing the three main factions, should meet in Vientiane from 24th to 27th November, in order to consider the composition of a coalition government. The cease-fire is in 140W general being observed, but there has been some increase in the number of incidents. The Conference at Geneva is continuing to make progress, though more slowly than before.
The Cambodian Government severed diplomatic relations with Thailand on 23rd November. This is a matter of concern to Her Majesty's Government, who have cordial relations with both countries.