HC Deb 09 October 1946 vol 427 cc180-1
26. Mr. Warbey

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is now in a position to announce a time-table for the withdrawal of the British troops from Greece.

Mr. McNeil

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given yesterday to the hon. Member for Mile End (Mr. Piratin).

Mr. Warbey

In view of the fact that that reply indicated that British troops are to remain in Greece for the time being, will my right hon. Friend give an assurance that they will not, in any circumstances, be used to support or assist the Greek Government in its vindictive persecution of political opponents?

Mr. McNeil

I think that is very reasonable, and I do give that assurance, but I repeat that British troops never have been, and never will be, used for that purpose.

Mr. Cocks

Does not their very presence, with arms, in Greece constitute an act of passive—

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member is not asking a question, but is advancing an argument.

Mr. Warbey

In the event of disturbances in Greece, does not the Minister think it desirable to withdraw them?

Mr. McNeil

I always thought it undesirable that British troops should be involved. I also think that civil disturbance is highly undesirable.