§ 43. Mr. Bellengerasked the Secretary of State for War whether the coastal, landward, and anti-aircraft defences of Gibraltar are now in a complete state of preparedness to resist possible enemy attack?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaEvery practicable precaution has been taken.
§ Mr. BellengerIn view of the statement made by a colleague of the right hon. Gentleman to a similar question recently, are we to understand that the anti-aircraft defences, which were not all that could be desired in the last crisis, are now in a state of complete preparedness?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaI do not know to which right hon. Friend the hon. Member is referring, but additional anti-aircraft guns have been sent and the position is satisfactory.
§ Mr. Wedgwood BennDoes the right hon. Gentleman remember that when the guns which were placed against Gibraltar were mentioned to him and his colleagues, it was described by them as a mare's nest?
§ Mr. AmmonIs it a fact that these additional guns have been found to be uncapable of being used owing to some part being missing?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaNo, Sir, that is completely untrue.