HC Deb 13 March 1933 vol 275 cc1606-7
46. Captain HAROLD BALFOUR

asked the Prime Minister if he will give an assurance that the Government during the present Disarmament Conference still intend to insist on the reservation of an adequate air force for police duties in overseas possessions and mandated territories; and whether the activities of any such force would be limited to the maintenance of internal law and order and thus be precluded from use in the event of aggression of any such territory from without?

Mr. BALDWIN

It is certainly the intention of His Majesty's Government to provide for an adequate air force for police duties overseas and in outlying places as stated in their declaration of policy on 17th November last. The answer to the second part of the question must necessarily depend upon the provisions of the Disarmament Convention.

Captain BALFOUR

Would my right hon. Friend give an assurance that the Air Force will be able to continue their work of protection from outside aggression of such, territories as Iraq and Aden?

Mr. BALDWIN

I do not think there is any immediate hurry as to the conclusions that may be arrived at by the Disarmament Conference.