§ 47. Mr. SHINWELLasked the Prime Minister what is the special feature of the European situation which justifies the Government in pursuing the policy of increasing armaments; whether the Government are in possession of information which supports that policy; and whether he can take the House fully into his confidence?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThis is not a matter which can be dealt with by question and answer, but I may say that the main features which justify the policy of the Government with regard to armaments are the growth of armaments in other countries and the general insecurity of the international situation.
§ Mr. SHINWELLIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the matter has never yet been satisfactorily explained in the course of Debate, and, as this is the only opportunity open to us of obtaining further enlightenment, will he take the earliest opportunity of putting all the cards on the table and thus allaying the disquietude that exists in many parts of the country?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI do not find myself able to agree with the hon. Member. This matter has been referred to frequently and it is always open, in pertinent Debate, for him to raise the question. I have spoken and given reasons, which may not be satisfactory to the hon. Member, both during the General Election and many times in this House.
§ Mr. THURTLEDoes the Prime Minister regard his lips as being now unsealed?
§ Captain HAROLD BALFOURCan the Prime Minister say how it will be possible to enlighten those who decline to be enlightened?