LIBYA (ITALIAN FORCES).

HC Deb 21 December 1938 vol 342 c2851

4. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Prime Minister whether he can now state the numerical strength of the two army corps and the native division constituting the Italian forces in Libya?

Mr. Butler

As it is understood that reliefs have not been completed, I regret that I am unable to state the numerical strength of the Italian forces in Libya.

Sir A. Sinclair

Is there any reason to suppose that they have been reduced in accordance with the provisions of the Anglo-Italian Agreement?

Mr. Butler

Yes, Sir. In reply to a previous question I informed the House that that was the case.

Sir P. Harris

How can the hon. Gentleman know that they have been reduced when he does not know the numbers, and never did know the numbers of these Italians?

Mr. Butler

I am satisfied that they have been reduced.