§ 39. Mr. MANDERasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air what instructions have been given to the air officer commanding in Iraq with regard to bombing internally to assist the Iraq Government under any circumstances?
§ Sir P. SASSOONAs stated in the reply given on 16th November, His Majesty's Government have undertaken no obligations in regard to assisting the Iraq Government in the maintenance of internal security. If a critical situation arose and a request for such assistance was rceived, His Majesty's Government would consider the situation as a whole, including such matters as the protection of British and other foreign subjects and their property, before coming to a decision as to the assistance to be given, if any, and as to its nature.
§ Captain HAROLD BALFOURAre we to understand that the Air Force in Iraq cannot be used for the protection of British nationals without previous arrangement with the Iraq Government?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI think my hon. and gallant Friend understands from my answer what the situation is.