HC Deb 25 November 1936 vol 318 cc411-2
30. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will give a list of the Colonial local forces available, respectively, for local defence and for defence of the Empire generally, noting how far they have been brought up to date with modern weapons and air arm; and will he state what steps are being taken to enlist greater support as, for instance, in Malta, Palestine, Cyprus, or Ceylon?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

I would refer the right hon. and gallant Gentleman to a Stationery Office publication entitled "Notes on the Land and Air Forces of the British Oversea Dominions, Colonies, Protectorates, Mandated Territories and Territories under Condominium," which contains information concerning the constitution, terms of service and armament of the Colonial local forces. Inspection reports on each of these forces are rendered annually by competent military officers, and reviewed by the proper authorities in this country, and these forces are kept up to date in regard to weapons and training.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Will the right hon. Gentleman be so good as to send me a. copy of that publication? May I ask him whether attention is being paid to the air services in these various forces, so that they may be able to take some part in modern warfare?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

Certainly, we are doing all we can to develop auxiliary air forces and flying clubs in those Colonies where it is found possible to do so.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

May I ask in particular whether there is any chance of getting a local air force or local force of any kind in Malta or Cyprus?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

There is a considerable air force in Malta, already. The question of further air development in Cyprus is under consideration.

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