HC Deb 02 November 1943 vol 393 cc510-1
31. Mr. Leach

asked the Secretary of State for War how many British lives were lost in the defence of Egypt; what active military help was rendered by the Egyptian authorities; and how many Egyptian lives were lost in the defence of their country?

Sir J. Grigg

The defence of Egypt itself was an integral part of all the operations conducted in the Middle East against the Axis and cannot be isolated therefrom so that the specific information asked for by my hon. Friend cannot be given. The Egyptian Government fulfilled their obligations under the Anglo-Egyptian Treaty of 1936.

Mr. Leach

Can the right hon. Gentleman affirm that the Egyptian Government faithfully did its duty in protecting its country and risking the lives of its citizens in its defence?

Sir J. Grigg

The answer I gave was that they fulfilled their obligations under the Treaty of 1936.

Mr. Astor

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Egyptian Army gave invaluable help in the defence of the Canal and at Alexandria?

Sir J. Grigg

Yes, Sir.