Statement of the The Rt. Hon. Minister in the FCO on Behalf of the Prime Minister on the Subject of Guyana in the House of Commons
HC Deb 27 April 1970
Order for Second Reading read.
8.25 p.m.
The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr. Maurice Foley)
This leads me on to the hon. Gentlemanβs question about defence. He rightly said that there have been statements in the House by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister and other Ministers, in answer to Questions, on our relationship in defence matters with the Government of Guyana. I want to make it clear that we have no defence agreement with the Government of Guyana. This is in accordance with our practice not to conclude defence agreements with countries in which we have no direct defence interest.
But a military attack against Guayana would naturally be a matter of serious concern to Britain. The action that Her Majestyβs Government might take in such an event would be determined in the light of all the circumstances prevailing at the time. I am reiterating what has been publicly stated in the House. This is still our policy, and will continue to be so.
This is a gem. Thanks, Shaitaan.
Simply a statement in a discussion.
The fundamental issue is the official documents regarding Britain's commitment to all former colonies where another country attacks or make aggression against the country.
Read highlighted paragraph in blue.
The PPP would have to step down before the British take action.