HC Deb 30 June 1938 vol 337 cc2129-30
86. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister the present position with regard to foreign domination of the Straits of Gibraltar; what recent reports have been received by the Government on the subject; and whether they are satisfied that the passage of British ships in war time through the Straits is assured?

Mr. Butler

As regards the present position, I have nothing to add to the reply which I gave yesterday to a question by the Noble Lady the Member for Perth and Kinross (Duchess of Atholl). The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.

89. Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

asked the Prime Minister the circumstances of the attacks upon the British ships "Farnham" and "Alpha" by Spanish insurgent aeroplanes; and, in particular, whether he has any information as to the country of origin of the attacking aeroplanes?

Mr. Butler

As regards the attack on the steamship "Farnham," I have nothing to add to the reply given yesterday to the hon. Member for Lambeth, North (Mr. G. Strauss). My Noble Friend has received no reports of any attack on a British steamship "Alpha," nor any information regarding the country of origin of the aeroplanes which attacked the "Farnham."

Mr. Attlee

(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether the Government have now received any reply to their protest to the Spanish insurgent authorities regarding the bombing of British ships?

The Prime Minister

The reply of the Burgos authorities is being brought by Sir Robert Hodgson, who is expected to arrive in London to-day.