§ 11. Captain FULLERasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that in most countries in Europe the strength of bombardment aircraft is being increased; and if he will press at the disarmament discussions for the elimination of bombing aircraft without delay, and endeavour to obtain agreement on that before proceeding to discussion of the general limitation of armaments?
§ Mr. EDENSo far as I am aware, it is not the fact that in most countries in Europe the strength of aircraft specifically designed for bombing is being increased. With regard to the second part of the question, I understand that all types of aircraft may to some extent be used for bombing. It was to meet this difficulty that Articles 34 and 35 of the British Draft Convention were drawn up. The proposals contained in those Articles continue to represent the policy of His Majesty's Government. In their view the whole problem of disarmament is vitally urgent, and, as my hon. and gallant Friend is aware, every effort is being made to achieve a general agreement covering all aspects of this problem.
§ Captain FULLERIs it not a fact that it is bombing aircraft which is the main cause of the present apprehension and feeling of insecurity in Europe, and that the limitation of bombing aircraft really transcends any other aspect of the general limitation of armaments problem, discussions on which only serve to further delay?
§ Captain HAROLD BALFOURWill the hon. Member consider taking the question of air disarmament out of the Disarmament Conference and making a specific treaty among the air Powers in regard to the matter?