3. Lieut. - Colonel Sir ARNOLD WILSONasked the Under-Secretary of State for India what is the estimated cost of rebuilding Quetta; and whether, in view of the fact that Russia, Afghanistan and Persia are members of the League of Nations and adherents with India and Great Britain to the principle of collective security, it is proposed to give further consideration to the strategic needs of this part of the frontier of India?
§ Mr. BUTLERThe civil and military reconstruction of Quetta is at present expected to cost on provisional estimates something over seven crores of rupees. The strategic needs of the frontier of India are under constant consideration, and all relevant factors were taken into account when the decision was taken to rebuild Quetta.
§ Sir A. WILSONIn view of the fact that the menace can only come from Russia, will not my hon. Friend consult the Foreign Secretary with a view to the conclusion of a non-aggression pact with Russia?
§ Mr. WISEAs Great Britain appears to be committed to bearing the cost of everybody else's defence, would it not be fair to ask Russia and Afghanistan to contribute towards the rebuilding?
§ Mr. SHINWELLHas the hon. Gentleman any reason to suppose that any menace is coming from Russia?