§ Mr. Whitakerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, as a contribution to the peaceful security of the Persian Gulf, he will ensure that Great Britain only gives defensive protection to Governments there which enjoy democratic support.
§ Mr. George BrownWhile I do not accept the implication that the present Governments of some States of the Persian Gulf do not enjoy the support of their peoples, it is Her Majesty's Government's policy to encourage all forms of evolution and development in the protected States. It 111W is the maintenance of our treaty obligations that enables this process to be carried forward in conditions of peace and security.