HC Deb 04 August 1947 vol 441 cc959-60
58. Mr. Piratin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a statement indicating all forms of aid given to Greece since the liberation in 1944, showing the value of money given and loaned, goods given and sold on long-credit terms, arms and military equipment given and sold; and indicating the value of the help since 31st March, 1947.

Mr. Mayhew

During the Mutual Aid period ending on 31st December, 1945, His Majesty's Government extended to Greece assistance to the total value of £88,000,000. In respect of the period from 1st January, 1946, until 22nd May, 1947, on which date United States assistance became effective, further assistance to the value of £44,000,000 has been given or promised. This includes a sum of £2,000,000 beyond' that voted in March last in respect of equipment de livered to the Greeks after 31st March, 1947, for the re-organisation of their armed forces, and a further sum to meet certain sterling costs incurred by the Greeks prior to this date. Supplementary estimates will be presented in due course. It includes also a sum estimated at £1,500,000 in respect of surplus stores in Greece, which have been put at the disposal of the Greek Government under an agreement of 26th March, 1947.

Mr. Piratin

Has the Minister any information to give the House as to how this money has been spent—whether on the reconstruction of Greece or the purchasing of armaments to build up an army?

Mr. Mayhew

Mainly on military expenditure, but, of course, we have made great contributions to U.N.R.R.A. as well.

Major Bruce

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether this country has incurred any dollar expenditure in respect of the allowance given to Greece?

Mr. Mayhew

No, Sir.

Mr. Thurtle

Has the hon. Gentleman any information as to the amount of assistance of a similar character which may have been given indirectly to the Greek insurgents by the Russian Government?

Mr. Mayhew

No, Sir.

Mr. Sydney Silverman

May I ask my hon. Friend whether his last answer but one was intended to convey to the House that this £130 million spent in Greece was spent in sterling and involved no dollars?

Mr. Mayhew

Perhaps I might have notice of that question.