§ 32. Mr. Simmondsasked the Prime Minister whether he can make any statement on the proposed closer co-operation between the French Air Force and the Royal Air Force?
§ The Prime MinisterI would refer my hon. Friend to the statement in the communiqué issued on 29th April at the close of the Anglo-French conversations to the effect that
the two Governments decided to continue as might be necessary the contacts between their General Staffs established tinder the arrangement reached in London on 19th March, 1936.To this statement I have nothing to add.
§ Mr. SimmondsCan the Prime Minister say whether it is proposed to begin technical discussions in regard to the air programme with the French Government?
§ The Prime MinisterI imagine that the discussions which take place between the air attaches are of a different character.
§ Mr. ManderIs it intended to bring other friendly Governments into the discussions?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir.
Mr. AlexanderMay we take it that the only position we have reached is a military alliance with France, and that we are preparing for war against other countries?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir. That is not a fair interpretation of the position.