HC Deb 14 March 1945 vol 409 cc214-5
21. Captain Gammans

asked the Secretary of State for Air if he will issue the names of member of the W.A.A.F. who were dropped by parachute over occupied Europe; and state the number of casualties suffered in these operations.

Commander Brabner

I sympathise with the desire of my hon. and gallant Friend to obtain recognition for members of the W.A.A.F. who have taken part in hazardous operations of this kind. At present, however, the disclosure of names would be open to objection on security grounds as it would tend to jeopardise the safety of patriots who took part in the operations and are now in enemy hands. There are also objections to the publication of casualties sustained in these operations. I regret, therefore, that I cannot give the information asked for.

Captain Gammans

Can my hon. and gallant Friend tell the House why it is that the Russian Government can give full particulars of the work of partisans behind the lines, whereas we, apparently, can give no particulars of this most gallant exploit?

Commander Brabner

Perhaps the hon. and gallant Gentleman might ask that question of the Russian Government, but I can assure him that we will give out the names as soon as security allows us to do so.

Sir H. Williams

Is my hon. and gallant Friend aware that you cannot ask a question of the Russian Government as there is no Russian Parliament?