§ 8. Mr. Manderasked the Prime Minister whether he has any statement to make with regard to the results of the military mission to Portugal; and what arrangements for mutual defence or action are contemplated?
§ Mr. ButlerYes, Sir. His Majesty's Government and the Portuguese Government believe that the Mission whose work has now ended has strengthened the friendship which unites the defence forces of the two countries. As regards the second part of the question, the two Governments are in close and continuous contact on matters of common interest relating to defence, but the disclosure of arrangements of this kind would not be in the public interest.
§ Mr. ManderIs it seriously contemplated that the Government are going to 182 ask the people of this country to fight for the Portuguese colonies?
§ Mr. ButlerThe position has been frequently made quite clear in this House.