HC Deb 15 February 1944 vol 397 c27
54. Sir T. Moore

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he can make a statement in regard to the recent attack by British aircraft on a Swedish ship carrying food to Greece.

The Secretary of State for Air (Sir Archibald Sinclair)

This ship was damaged in Chios Harbour as a result of an air attack carried out on the morning of 7th February. Full details of the incident are not yet available, but I understand that owing to changes in the sailing plan the presence of the ship in Chios Harbour was not notified to the British authorities in time to prevent the attack being made on the harbour. I need hardly say that His Majesty's Government greatly regret that damage should have been done to a neutral vessel in such circumstances.

Sir T. Moore

While I thank my right hon. Friend for his reply, can he say whether the cargo was destroyed or not?

Sir A. Sinclair

I cannot say without notice.

Mr. Glenvil Hall

Would it be possible, in view of the fact that this food was meant for Greece, for the British Government to accelerate or assist other cargoes to take its place?

Sir A. Sinclair

That is another question.