Oral Answers to Questions — Anglo-Russian Relations (Prime Minister's Speech)

– in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 22 June 1954.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Mr George Pargiter Mr George Pargiter , Southall 12:00, 22 June 1954

asked the Prime Minister, in view of the favourable comment in the Soviet Press, if he will have his speech to the Primrose League on 31st May last printed as a white paper; and what further suggestions he has for the implementation of the objectives he then indicated.

Photo of Mr Winston Churchill Mr Winston Churchill , Woodford

I am always glad for my speeches to receive due publicity especially when, as in this case, they contain a deserved tribute to the present Administration, and, I may add, some censure on our predecessors. I do not, however think that it would be customary to issue a political speech of this nature as a white paper.

I was glad to note that my speech was favourably received in leading circles in the Soviet Union. The hon. Member may rest assured that Her Majesty's Government do not propose to lose any opportunity of securing a real improvement in our relations with the Soviet Government. But he will realise that this must be more than a one-way affair.

Photo of Mr George Pargiter Mr George Pargiter , Southall

While fully appreciating the reply of the right hon. Gentleman, in view of the fact that he could so easily make representations to America for informal discussions on world affairs, could he not with equal facility make representations to Moscow for similar discussions?

Photo of Lieut-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore Lieut-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore , Ayr

Why should not hon. Gentlemen opposite join the Primrose League and so hear the speeches of the Prime Minister for themselves, thus saving the taxpayers' money in repairing their defects?

Mr. Lee:

Could we be assured that the Primrose League treats its officials with more courtesy than does the National Canine Defence League?

Photo of Mr Herbert Williams Mr Herbert Williams , Croydon East

Is my right hon. Friend aware that his speech as Grand Marshal of the Primrose League appears in the "Primrose League Gazette," which can be bought at the bookstalls?

Prime Minister

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prime_Minister_of_the_United_Kingdom

White Paper

A document issued by the Government laying out its policy, or proposed policy, on a topic of current concern.Although a white paper may occasion consultation as to the details of new legislation, it does signify a clear intention on the part of a government to pass new law. This is a contrast with green papers, which are issued less frequently, are more open-ended and may merely propose a strategy to be implemented in the details of other legislation.

More from wikipedia here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_paper