HC Deb 22 February 1939 vol 344 c356
6. Mr. J. J. Davidson

asked the Prime Minister whether during the recent exchange of military information between this country and Italy, His Majesty's Government received definite assurances with regard to the aerodromes established on the Mediterranean coast?

Mr. Butler

In accordance with the provisions of Annex 2 to the Anglo-Italian Agreement of 16th April, 1938, certain military information was exchanged with the Italian Government on 10th January of this year. There was no question of exchanging any general assurances, for which the Agreement makes no provision.

Mr. Davidson

Will the Under-Secretary answer that part of the question dealing with aerodromes established on the Mediterranean coast?

Mr. Butler

I think I have answered it by saying that there were no general assurances of this kind. It was simply an agreement to exchange military information.

Mr. Davidson

Is it the intention of His Majesty's Government to keep secret the result of these military conversations?

Mr. Butler

They must not be regarded as secret military conversations. They are exchanges of information which are, by their very nature, confidential.