46. Major Vyvyan Adamsasked the Prime Minister whether, as questions of security can, at this distance of time, be no longer involved, he will describe the character and extent of any attempt at the invasion of these islands made by the enemy during the summer and early autumn of 1940?
§ Mr. AttleeIt is well known throughout the world that the enemy's preparations for invasion in 1940 were frustrated by the Royal Air Force. As, however, the staffs of the Service Departments are at the present time heavily engaged on current duties, my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister is reluctant to impose on them the additional work of preparing a detailed answer which would satisfy my hon. and gallant Friend's curiosity, without at the same time disclosing to the enemy the extent of our sources of information.
Major AdamsIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that I do not wish to impose any unnecessary burden on the staffs and that I was merely asking as a matter of historical interest? Will he give me this information? Can anything but good result from publishing the bare outline of the facts at this distance of time? Further, may I ask whether on 7th September, 1940, the giving of the signal "Cromwell" was intended to be actual or for exercise?
§ Mr. AttleeI should have to have notice of that question.
§ Mr. StokesWill my right hon. Friend inform the House who drafted that impudent reply?
Major AdamsIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that every hon. Member of this House, whether he is in the Forces or not, has a perfect right to ask such Questions?