§ 26. Colonel Burtonasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that a number of Germans have landed in Scandinavia by parachute with the object of sabotage and destruction of Norwegian lines of communication; and whether he is satisfied with the arrangements made to counteract such an occurrence in this country?
§ Mr. StanleyI am aware of reports that German troops have been landed in Norway by parachute. The answer to the second part of the Question is in the affirmative.
§ Colonel BurtonHas not my right hon. Friend heard on the wireless of the wonderful manner in which these troops were landed by parachute, with machine guns and collapsible bicycles; and is not he aware that in a large area there is nobody at all who could possibly deal with any such landing?
§ Mr. StanleyI have answered that. I said that I have heard of the reports and that arrangements have been made to counteract such landings in this country.
§ Colonel BurtonMay I bring to the notice of my right hon. Friend that there are many areas where no arrangements have been made?
§ Mr. StanleyI would be delighted if my hon. and gallant Friend would, but, of course, he would not necessarily know the arrangements made by commanders.
§ Colonel BurtonIs my right hon. Friend aware that there is nobody within five miles' call from my house?
§ Mr. StanleyIn these days of motor cars, my hon. and gallant Friend need not feel too frightened in being isolated at a distance of five miles.
§ Sir William DavisonHave not nearly all these German parachutists been shot down and their equipment used by those to whom they came?