HC Deb 23 April 1964 vol 693 cc210-2W
Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if Her Majesty's Government propose to extend official recognition to the new Government of Laos.

Mr. R. A. Butler

My information is that the Prime Minister of Laos has not resigned and there has been no change of Government.

Negotiations between the Laotian leaders are continuing and I understand that as a result of his interview with the King of Laos, Prince Souvanna Phouma has agreed to stay on as Prime Minister of the Government of National Union. Other arrangements for restoring the status quo have not yet been completed and to that extent the situation is still uncertain.

Meanwhile diplomatic representatives in Laos are all working in close co-operation to promote the preservation of the Geneva Agreements and the continuation of the Government of National Union under Prince Souvanna Phouma as Prime Minister.