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But, however strong our reservations as to the results for the United Kingdom of an association of the type proposed, there might be difficulty in opposing, in principle and out of hand, the convocation of a Europe-Commonwealth Conference, even though the objects and indeed composition of such a conference are so vague. My colleagues on the Committee of Ministers might point out with some truth that the other members of the Commonwealth might not necessarily share our views; and I should not wish to impose a veto upon discussion of the project which, whatever its demerits from our point of view, is regarded in some quarters as promising a solution to the economic problems of Western Europe. I believe that our best line would be that the proposals are too indefinite for any action at present but that we will consult our Commonwealth partners if more specific ideas are put forward by the Assembly.
Conclusions
69
I propose accordingly that I should be authorised to speak on the following lines:-
(a) Her Majesty's Government are doubtful whether an association of the type proposed is compatible with their policy of promoting closer relations between the United Kingdom, Europe and North America in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, and fully reserve their position on the proposal
(b) They would be prepared to consider, in consultation with the other Commonwealth countries, any mutually advantageous proposals for closer association between the Commonwealth and Europe: but, such consideration and consultation can only take place on the basis of specific proposals, which are at present lacking.
(c) The Committee of Ministers should accordingly refer Recommendation 21 back to the Consultative Assembly with the request for a more explicit statement of the type of association that the Assembly has in mind.
(d) Her Majesty's Government will be prepared, in the light of the Assembly's reply, to consult with the other Commonwealth Governments.
7.
I propose, if my colleagues agree, that the other Commonwealth Governments, and the United States Government, should be informed of the above conclusions before the meeting of the Committee of Ministers takes place.
Foreign Office, S. W. la a
13TH MAY, 1952.
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A.E.
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ANNEX A
Page 18 of GOMMENDATION 21 PART C.
A