HC Deb 18 May 1943 vol 389 c933
46. Major Lyons

asked the Prime Minister whether he will take an early opportunity of stating, so far as is possible, the complete position of the Arakan operations in Southern Burma; and whether, as a matter of urgency, he will consider arranging to have sent to India forthwith a mission comprising a few officers of high rank and experience in the Army and Royal Air Force drawn from the armies serving with General Alexander, to advise on improved methods of training, tactics and air cooperation, as gained through experience in the recent operations in North Africa?

The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

I have nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. Member for Eye (Mr. Granville) on 5th May.

Major Lyons

In view of the urgency of the matter, will the right hon. Gentleman reconsider the suggestion in the light of all present circumstances?

Mr. Attlee

I can assure the hon. and gallant Gentleman that the lessons of one campaign bearing on another are very carefully considered. I do not think the particular suggestion that he has made would be useful.

Sir Stanley Reed

Is there not a considerable difference between the terrain, the climate and the malaria-sodden jungles of Arakan and the deserts of Tripoli and the mountains of Tunisia?

Mr. Attlee

I think the hon. Gentleman is quite right.