§ 46. Mr. S. O. Daviesasked the Prime Minister if he will make a statement giving details as to the strength and nature of equipment of foreign Armed Forces now on British soil.
§ The Prime MinisterThe only foreign Armed Forces in this country are American. There are about 1,500 United States naval personnel in this country (including the Headquarters of the Commander-in-Chief, United States Naval Forces, Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean) and about 10,000 United States Air Force personnel, comprising three medium bomber groups, with headquarters and administrative units. These Forces are equipped with about 180 aircraft.
§ Mr. DaviesIt was rather difficult to hear all the latter part of the Prime Minister's reply, because of the deliberate rowdiness on the other side of the House. Will the Prime Minister give details of the nature of the equipment, particularly of the American air squadrons, that are stationed in this country?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir. I am not prepared to give more information than I have given to my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. Fitzroy MacleanIs it not a fact that the Argentinian forces on Deception Island are armed and is not that British soil?
§ Mr. DaviesWill my right hon. Friend inform me how it is that the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Woodford (Mr. Churchill) appears to be in the absolute confidence of the Government, and reveals all the information he gets when he is making his frightful speeches?
§ Mr. SpeakerThe hon. Member cannot ask questions about the right hon. 27 Member for Woodford (Mr. Churchill). He must ask the Government questions about matters for which they are responsible, and nothing else.