asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the statement in M. Molotov's speech that the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics should have a guarantee that no warships of non-Black Sea Powers should be allowed to pass the Straits, he will consider ways and means of making it clear to the Government of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics that we have no desire to interfere with the status quo in the Black Sea unless some non-Black Sea Power attempts to upset it, and then only with the consent of Turkey?

The position in the Straits is governed by the Montreux Convention. I can only add that His Majesty's Government have no aggressive designs in the Black Sea.

Would the Government consider the proposals of the Russian Government, with a view to negotiating a settlement on this matter which will allay the fears, if they are genuine, of the Russian Government?

My answer set out the position of His Majesty's Government.