§ 5. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Mooreasked the Minister of Economic Warfare whether he will consider allowing further supplies of foodstuffs adequate for the necessity to be exported to and distributed amongst our Greek Allies?
§ The Minister of Economic Warfare (Mr. Dalton)The question of further relief for Greece is being considered by His Majesty's Government, but I cannot at present add anything to my statement of 27th January.
§ Sir T. MooreIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that 25,000 tons of food monthly is a minimum amount of foodstuffs to be distributed to these gallant and heroic people, who are reported to be dying off at the rate of 500 a day in Athens, and can he not devise some method whereby this amount of food could be increased?
§ Mr. DaltonWe are most anxious to do whatever we can consistently with maintaining pressure upon the enemy and making sure that food intended for our gallant Allies is not taken by those against whom we are fighting in this war. In spite of representations made through the International Red Cross, I am sorry to say we have not yet received safe conduct from the two enemy Powers for the first shipment.
§ Sir T. MooreDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that, even were our enemies to seize this amount, it would be infinitesimal for the requirements of Germany, and would it not be wise to take the risk of shipment?