HC Deb 01 July 1942 vol 381 cc206-7
46. Mr. Price

asked the Minister of Production whether collaboration on design and performance of all forms of war equipment is taking place between this country and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics?

Sir A. Duncan

There are British Missions in Russia and Russian Missions in this country, and it is the policy of both Governments to use these Missions so as to secure as close collaboration as may be possible on the design and performance of all forms of war equipment.

Mr. Price

Has this meant co-operation in the exchange of views on design and performance, or has it been left to run out and have no effect?

Sir A. Duncan

No, Sir, it has not been allowed to run out.

Mr. Shinwell

As a result of this quite proper collaboration, have we received any information from the Russian Mission as to the effectiveness of dive-bombers?

Sir A. Duncan

I regret that it would hardly be proper, in the public interest, for me to go more fully into this matter.

Mr. Shinwell

Would it not be in the public interest to ascertain what the views of the Russian Government may be on the dive-bombers used by ourselves?