§ 11. Mr. Lambertasked the Prime Minister whether he has received any further assurances that the Spanish Government propose to guard the economic independence and the territorial integrity of Spain?
§ The Prime MinisterThe House is familiar with the assurances on this point given by General Franco before the recognition of the Spanish Government. Since that date no further assurances have been asked for or received. In the course of General Franco's speech on the Madrid parade, he is, however, reported to have stated that
it must be understood once and for all, and accepted in all countries, that there can be 2271 no question in any way of infringing our sovereignty and our political and economic liberty.
§ 19. Mr. G. Straussasked the Prime Minister whether he is satisfied that Italian armaments will be now withdrawn from Spain?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir.
§ Mr. StraussIs the Prime Minister aware that the "Popolo d'Italia" recently stated that the Italian Government were not going to withdraw their armaments from Spain, and as this would be a violation of the Anglo-Italian Treaty will the right hon. Gentleman inquire into it?
§ The Prime MinisterI have not seen the statement referred to.
§ Mr. BennIs the Prime Minister aware that the "Times" yesterday stated that the armaments were being left behind? Does he not realise the great difficulty of this House, when we have to accept statements—it is no fault of the right hon. Gentleman—from him which subsequently turn out to be entirely misleading?
§ The Prime MinisterI give the House the best information in my possession. I cannot do more than that.