§ 130. Mr. E. L. Mallalieuasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has any statement to make with regard to the co-operation of the British coal and iron and steel industries with those of the countries participating in the Schuman Pact signed in Paris on 18th April.
§ Mr. YoungerHis Majesty's Government welcome the signature of the Schuman Plan Treaty as an important practical step towards the realisation of Franco-German co-operation. The final text of the treaty as signed in Paris on 18th April is now being examined at official level and will be most carefully considered by His Majesty's Government. There can be no question of formal discussion on the possible association of the United Kingdom with the Schuman Plan organisations until the treaty is ratified; but His Majesty's Government note with satisfaction that special provision is made in the treaty for the initiation by the High Authority as soon as it is set up of such discussions with His Majesty's Government.
I shall add that the signature of the Schuman Plan Treaty raises important questions on the future of various international controls of the German coal and steel industries, and that His Majesty's Government is prepared to discuss these questions in the near future with other interested Governments.