Canadian Premier Tells Parliament Ben-gurion Did Not Ask for Arms

Prime Minister Diefenbaker reported to the Canadian Parliament here on his talks with Israel’s Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion and emphasized the fact that Mr. Ben-Gurion made no requests for Canadian arms during his visit in Canada.

The Canadian Prime Minister told the Parliament that the question of Israel’s relations with the neighboring Arab countries was discussed, “but neither directly nor indirectly was there any request for military assistance” on the part of Mr. Ben-Gurion. As a result of the visit, it was agreed to consider exchanging landing rights in Canada and Israel, the Parliament was informed.

In a joint statement issued by the Canadian and Israeli Prime Ministers prior to Mr. Ben-Gurion’s leaving Canada it was revealed that the Israeli Prime Minister told Mr. Diefenbaker that he is convinced that peace ultimately will be achieved in the Middle East. The communique said, in part:

“In their conversations the two Prime Ministers reviewed a wide range of international problems, including the pressing need for controlled world disarmament, the Congo, tension in various areas, and the general situation in the Middle East. They reaffirmed their belief in the important role of the United Nations in helping to maintain peace and security in many troubled areas of the world. They expressed the earnest hope that the organization would continue to enjoy the support of all its members so that it might fulfill the vital responsibilities which have been entrusted to it.

“Mr. Ben-Gurion outlined his views on Middle Eastern problems and the particular difficulties for his country which have resulted from the failure to reach a peaceful solution of Arab-Israeli differences in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter. At the same time Mr. Ben-Gurion expressed his conviction that peace will ultimately be achieved. “Mr. Ben-Gurion expressed the appreciation of the Government and people of Israel for the consistent efforts of Canada’s Government and people for peace throughout the world.

“The two Prime Ministers agreed that an eventual solution to the problem would have to envisage the right of all countries in the area to live in peace and security. Both agreed that a relaxation of tension would improve the prospects of peace in the world, including the Middle East. “

MAYOR OF OTTAWA SEES BEN-GURION’S LIFE SYMBOLIC OF THE JEWS

In an official visit at Ottawa’s historic City Hall, where he was welcomed by Mrs. Charlotte Whitton, Mayor of this city, Mr. Ben-Gurion repeated his theme of prime interest in peace among nations and the reign of justice being humanity’s greatest need. He said he was paying his first visit to Ottawa, and his second visit to Canada. Canada had “too many” lakes and he would like to transfer just one to Israel, he told Mayor Whitton. Meanwhile, he said, Israel’s attempt to turn salt water into water for drinking and cultivation was continuing, with the aid of science.

The Prime Minister said he was glad to be received by a lady mayor, pointing out that Israel boasted a lady mayor in one of its new communities. He recalled that Israel had had women as prophets and rulers long before Ottawa. Israel’s last independent ruler, in fact, was a woman, he said. He referred to the two-racial origin of Canada and said: “This is the best example which you can show to the world of how people of different races can live together in peace. “

Mayor Whitton said Mr. Ben-Gurion’s own life was symbolic of the story of the Jewish people. “Like the fathers of your people, you worked first on the good land of your heritage, but under the rule of an occupying power,” she said. The visit to City Hall was followed by a reception given by Prime Minister Ben-Gurion at Ottawa’s Chateau Laurier Hotel, in which he was host to Federal and diplomatic dignitaries, as well as representatives of the local Jewish community. From here, Mr, Ben-Gurion went to Quebee City.