HC Deb 15 March 1939 vol 345 cc416-7
8. Mr. Noel-Baker

asked the Prime Minister the strength of the Italian Army and the number of Italian aircraft at present in Abyssinia?

Mr. Butler

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave to the hon. and learned Member for Kings-winford (Mr. A. Henderson) on 22nd February. His Majesty's Government have no exact information as to the number of aircraft at present in Italian East Africa.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Can the right hon. Gentleman say why these aircraft are in Abyssinia?

Mr. Butler

I have nothing to add to the reply I gave to the hon. and learned Member for Kingswinford.

Mr. Henderson

Seeing that we are frequently told that the Italian Government have conquered Abyssinia, why is it necessary to maintain an enormous force in Abyssinia?

Mr. Butler

I have always said that there is resistance in a certain area.