HC Deb 17 March 1938 vol 333 cc600-2
87. Duchess of Atholl

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that on two days about a week ago 14 ships, each over 7,000 tons, left Hamburg loaded with armaments for the Spanish insurgents; and whether, in view of the increasing infringement of the non intervention policy of which there is this and other evidence, he will abandon the non-intervention policy?

86. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the official statement published by the Spanish Government on 15th March that the Spanish insurgents have recently received reinforcements of 20 German air squadrons and five German anti aircraft batteries; and whether His Majesty's Government intend to reconsider the policy of non-intervention?

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Butler)

I have made inquiries, but I have so far received no confirmation of these reports. It appears that the statement to which the hon. Member for Kingswinford (Mr. A. Henderson) refers, was issued by the Ministry of Defence at Barcelona. His Majesty's Government are not prepared to depart from their policy of non intervention in the Spanish conflict.

Mr. Henderson

Is not the news from Barcelona to-day confirmation of the allegation contained in the question?

Duchess of Atholl

Is not the policy of non-intervention quite clearly seen to be a cloak under which two dictators have been able to secure a stranglehold on Spain?

Mr. Cocks

Has the Under-Secretary made inquiries—

Mr. Speaker

rose—

Mr. Attlee

(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether he has any information to give to the House with regard to the bombing yesterday of Barcelona?

The Prime Minister

I have seen Press reports which state that Barcelona was bombed late last night and this morning, and I am awaiting a fuller report.

Mr. Maxton

Has the Prime Minister had any word as to the position of our consular and other representatives in Barcelona?

The Prime Minister

No, Sir, I have not at present, but no doubt I shall have.

Mr. Attlee

I will put the question down to-morrow, and perhaps the right hon. Gentleman will then be able to answer it.

The Prime Minister

indicated assent.