HC Deb 26 July 1938 vol 338 cc2896-7
38. Mr. Arthur Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for War the countries of origin of the howitzer and other heavy guns which have been installed since July, 1936, in the vicinity of Algeciras and on the African coast opposite Gibraltar?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

The guns are of various countries of origin, but my information is not of a kind which could be made the basis of an authoritative and detailed statement.

Mr. Henderson

Is the Minister aware that the Spanish Government have officially stated that many of these guns are of German origin?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

The Spanish Government may officially state something about guns that are not in their possession, but I should not like to take the same risk.

Mr. Dalton

Is it not very desirable that the House should have information about the nationality and place of origin of these guns, in view of the threat which many of us believe is offered to Gibraltar and our communications through the Straits? Why can we not have a straight answer?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Any information which I give must presumably be authoritative, and I do not wish to commit myself to statements which may not be authoritative.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Has the right hon. Gentleman any information as to the nationality of the engineers, officers and personnel who mounted these guns?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

That does not arise.

Mr. Henderson

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the answer, I beg to give notice that I intend to raise this matter on the Adjournment.