The voice of Britain is too little, whether in Europe, the Middle East or the Pacific area. Chances of giving a lead or stabilising a situation, whether by effective propaganda or strong policy, have been lost. We have forsaken our traditional role of restoring confidence by words and of defending British interests by our actions.

While allowance must be made for the tide of nationalism which is sweeping the countries of the Middle East, the way in which British rights have been flouted, notably by Egypt and Persia, is a direct consequence of this Government’s weak and vacillating policy.

Throughout the Persian oil crisis we have persistently counselled moderation and the closest possible working with the United States, but we insist that there should be no surrender of our legitimate interests and no infringement of the ruling of the International Court of Justice.

The defence and stability of the Middle East rested on Britain in close alliance with the United States and creating an effective defence organisation with Greece, Turkey and other Middle Eastern States.