HC Deb 12 March 1923 vol 161 cc1012-3
58. Sir H. BRITTAIN

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of recent developments in the area outside the British occupied zone on the Rhine, he is able to assure the House that every effort is being made to expedite the passage of British goods intended for the British forces and that there is no unnecessary delay in the delivery of these goods?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Lieut.-Colonel Guinness)

I have been asked to reply. No difficulty is being experienced in getting military stores through to Cologne, and I am aware of no difficulties in regard to private consignments to the troops.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

May we take it the report during the week-end is not correct, that the French were holding up parcels?

Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESS

We consulted the Post Office and have been informed that they experienced no trouble with parcels. The Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes have had no trouble and we can trace no trouble anywhere.

Captain BENN

Is the hon. and gallant Member speaking with regard to the ordinary trader or merely in connection with war stores?

Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESS

The question is entirely with regard to military stores. Questions about trade should obviously be addressed to the Board of Trade.

Mr. DARBISHIRE

Cannot the same facilities be given to British trade?