§ 48. Mr. Palingasked the Prime Minister whether the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty was engaged on official business during his recent visit to insurgent territory in Spain; and what was the nature of this business or, if not, whether the visit was subject to and had his approval?
§ The Prime MinisterMy hon. Friend visited the Nyon patrols during the Whitsun Recess and on two occasions accompanied naval officers who landed in Government territory on official business. No landing in General Franco's territory was made on that occasion. Later, while visiting Gibraltar, I understand he entered a few miles into General Franco's territory for the purpose of visiting an English friend and bathing in a bay which was uninhabited. In these circumstances, there was obviously no necessity for him to obtain my approval.