Oral Answers to Questions — Foreign Ministers Conference (Berlin)

– in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 18 February 1954.

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Photo of Mr Emrys Hughes Mr Emrys Hughes , South Ayrshire 12:00, 18 February 1954

asked the Prime Minister if, in view of the failure of the four Foreign Ministers to reach an agreement at Berlin, he will now invite heads of States to a conference without a rigid agenda and without an array of officials and experts.

Photo of Mr Winston Churchill Mr Winston Churchill , Woodford

This Conference is as yet hardly ended. When it is concluded, sometime today, we must have a debate about it in this House after receiving a report from my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary. I have no doubt that the topics mentioned by the hon. Member will find their place in the discussion.

Photo of Mr Emrys Hughes Mr Emrys Hughes , South Ayrshire

In view of the objection of the Prime Minister on 11th May to a conference attended by a horde of experts, did he agree to sending 70 to Berlin? Did he not prophesy that a horde of experts would be unsuccessful? Has his prophecy not proved true, and how far is he now prepared to return to his original idea?

Photo of Mr Winston Churchill Mr Winston Churchill , Woodford

I said that these matters may be discussed next week, and it will be certainly open to any hon. Member who catches your eye, Mr. Speaker, to put this aspect before the House. I have no reason to regret anything I have said, but I am bound to say I have a feeling that we have gained advantages out of what has occurred.

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