§ Q9. Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Prime Minister what proposals he received on Monday, 2nd February from the Russian Government concerning the Middle East situation; what was the nature of his reply; and whether he will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterThe Soviet Ambassador gave me a message from Mr. Kosygin, which drew attention to the dangers of the present situation in the Middle East and urged the need for progress towards a peaceful solution.
In my reply to Mr. Kosygin, delivered on 6th February, I emphasised our deep concern about the deterioration of the Middle East situation; the need to reestablish an effective ceasefire; our support for the Security Council Resolution of November, 1967, and especially the twin principles of withdrawal and commitment to peace which it contains; and our willingness to work for a general agreement on an arms limitation even in advance of a political settlement for which we shall continue to strive.