HC Deb 29 April 1953 vol 514 cc102-3W
61. Mr. A. J. Irvine

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what consultations took place with the British Government in regard to the United Nations proposal that Switzerland should be the neutral Power to harbour prisoners in Korea while repatriation problems were dealt with.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

We have had continuous discussions with the State Department on questions relating to the resumption of the armistice negotiations, including the selection of a neutral State to look after prisoners-of-war who refuse repatriation.

62. Mr. Donnelly

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to make a further statement on the progress of the Korean truce talks.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

Plenary meetings of the armistice negotiations were resumed at Panmunjom on 26th April, when the Communists rejected the United Nations Command's nomination of Switzerland as the neutral State to take custody of prisoners who are not immediately repatriated. Meetings have continued daily since then, and after this morning's meeting General Harrison is reported to have said that some progress was made. The Communists are also reported to have stated at today's meeting that they are prepared to nominate an Asian neutral without specifying which.