§ 47. Mr. Maxton(for Mr. McGovern)asked the Prime Minister the number of aeroplanes sent to the Rumanian Government since August, 1938; the amount of other war material; and total amount of money given or lent and the amount of credit?
§ The Lore Privy Seal (Mr. Attlee)Under an agreement made with the Rumanian Government on 12th July, 1939, guarantees have been given in connection with orders placed with United Kingdom manufacturers for the export to Rumania of various goods, including war material. It would not be in the public interest to give particulars of the nature or value of the goods supplied.
§ Mr. MaxtonWhat is the point now in keeping this quiet? Why should there be any secrecy?
§ Mr. AttleeWell, why not?
§ Mr. MaxtonThat is not the point. The point is that on several occasions to-day we have had that type of negative answer from Ministers, and there is absolutely no reason for any secrecy here. Can the right hon. Gentleman tell us whether His Majesty's Government feel that they have had full value for the money they have expended on Rumania?
§ Mr. AttleeThat is another question, but I think my hon. Friend will see that there is a very obvious reason why we cannot state what arms have been sent to Rumania.