§ 46. Squadron-Leader Donnerasked the Prime Minister if he will state the total estimated cost of making an alternative place d'armes to take the place of that now comprised in the areas occupied by British Forces of all three Services in Egypt, including the Canal zone; and the cost of moving the stores and equipment of all three Services to Gaza or other centre or centres, including the cost of harbour works at Gaza or any other new naval centre.
§ The Prime MinisterUntil the present negotiations with Egypt have been concluded and decisions have been reached as to the future location of British base installations, I regret that it is quite impossible to give any estimate of cost such as that for which the hon and gallant Member asks.
§ Squadron-Leader DonnerAre we to understand from the right hon. Gentleman's reply, that the evacuation of Egypt was decided upon without any attempt to assess accurately the extent of this new financial burden on the United Kingdom taxpayer?
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir, but it is quite impossible to make estimates of hypothetical locations of troops.