HC Deb 01 December 1942 vol 385 cc1005-6
60. Mr. Astor

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Economic Warfare whether he will consider the possibility of dropping small packages of concentrated foodstuffs broadcast over the towns of Greece?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Economic Warfare (Mr. Dingle Foot)

I will bear in mind my hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion. He will appreciate, however, that it is a question of balancing the cost and dangers of such an enterprise against the real benefit likely to result to our Greek Allies. The amount of goods which could be so delivered would be insignificant in comparison with the quantities reaching Greece under the regular relief scheme now established, and it would not be possible to ensure that the packages fell into proper hands.

Mr. Astor

Is my hon. Frieed aware of the particular type of propaganda which the enemy are circulating in Greece and that most Greeks abroad are sure that this would be one of the most effective means of countering that propaganda in that country?

Mr. Foot

My hon. Friend will see by my answer that I have not ruled out that suggestion.