HC Deb 19 December 1945 vol 417 cc1476-7W
Mr. Zilliacus

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether His Majesty's Government still propose to adhere to the policy proclaimed by the then Prime Minister in the House on 24th May, 1944, of allowing the peoples of all countries now associated with the United Nations to choose whatever form of democratic government they liked, but of not allowing any form of Fascism to be restored or set up in any country with whom we have been at war.

Mr. Noel-Baker

On 24th May, 1944, the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Woodford (Mr. Churchill) said as followsIt is understood throughout Italy, and it is the firm intention of the United Nations, that Italy, like all other countries which are now associated with us, shall have a fair and free opportunity, as soon as the Germans are driven out and tranquility is restored, of deciding whatever form of democratic Government, whether monarchical or republican, they desire. They can choose freely for themselves. I emphasise, however, the word ' democratic ' because it is quite clear that we should not allow any form of Fascism to be restored or set up in any country with whom we have been at war."—[OFFICIAL REPORT, 24th May, 1944; Vol. 400, c. 768.] These words accurately describe the policy of His Majesty's present Government.