HC Deb 09 December 1946 vol 431 cc751-2
46. Mr. Piratin

asked the Prime Minister what decisions have been reached regarding the standardisation of arms in the discussions taking place between military representatives of His Majesty's Government and the U.S.A.

Mr. H. Morrison

I have been asked to reply. No decisions have been taken. In view of the reciprocal exchange of weapons between the United States and the United Kingdom which took place during the war over a very wide field, and the existing cooperation between the respective Forces in the occupation of Germany, there have naturally been informal exchanges of views on continuing such standardisation in the interests of economy and efficiency. The general position of the Government here was made clear in the statement made by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister in the Debate on the Address of 18th November.

Mr. Piratin

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that American newspaper reporters have stated that they have had their information from authoritative spokesmen of the War Office in this country? Does he, therefore, categorically deny that statement, thus informing the British public that it is untrue?

Mr. Morrison

The hon. Member may be disposed to take everything that appears in the American Press at its face value, I am not.

Mr. Oliver Stanley

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that similar statements were made by the hon. Member for Gates-head (Mr. Zilliacus), and is that not much more important?

Mr. Morrison

Of course, if any Member of this House makes a statement, I am bound to treat it with respect, but I should not take it as conclusive.