asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to what extent he has discussed his proposals for a peace treaty with Germany with the leaders of the political parties in Western Germany.

I presume the hon. Gentleman is referring to the comprehensive proposals which my right hon.Friend put forward at the Berlin Conference on 29th January for the reunification of Germany by means of free elections and the constitution of an all-German Government leading up to the conclusion of a peace treaty. During the last three weeks, my righthon. Friend has had frequent occasion to meet representatives of the German Federal Government, of the various German political parties, including the Opposition, as well as many prominent personalities in West Berlin. The above proposals were fully discussed on these occasions and have been very widely welcomed by Germans of all parties represented in the Bundestag.

Has the Minister of State read recent reports in reputable newspapers, like the "Manchester Guardian," showing that there is a powerful body of West German opinion which, while favouring genuine free elections, is opposed to Germany entering into military alliances? Can the right hon. and learned Gentleman confirm whether these reports are correct, and has he taken them into account in deciding on this policy.

The Question related to the extent to which my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary had discussed the proposals with leaders of the political parties of West Germany, and I sought to answer that Question. As to the extent of the view to which the hon. Member refers, I do not know how extensive it is. This is not a matter to be dealt with by Question and answer. There will be an opportunity to debate it in the near future.