HC Deb 18 April 1946 vol 421 c2893
65. Sir P. Hannon

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what measures U.N.R.R.A. is adopting to alleviate the present sufferings of the people of Hungary in view of the lack of food and clothing and the spread of disease.

Mr. McNeil

As I have informed the House on previous occasions, U.N.R.R.A. is authorised to provide Hungary with medical and sanitary aid and supplies and other emergency relief supplies for persons in greatest need, such as children and nursing and expectant mothers. The value of the goods so supplied is limited to four million dollars. U.N.R.R.A. representatives are already in Hungary and I understand that the first goods have reached Trieste now on their way to Hungary.

Sir P. Hannon

Will the Minister keep in mind the pitiable condition of a large section of the population and do anything he can to help them?

Mr. McNeil

We have been most anxious to meet these desperate needs, but we can only bind ourselves to the most limited and more desperate categories.

Mr. Assheton

Is the Minister aware of the very serious reduction in the amount of food produced in Hungary due to the land having been cut up in small sections?

Mr. McNeil

I cannot see that that relates to this question of U.N.R.R.A. supplies.