HC Deb 04 August 1947 vol 441 cc958-9
9. Mr. Thomas Macpherson

asked the Minister of Supply whether, in view of the gradual withdrawal of British troops in Greece, the Greek Government is to be permitted to acquire surpluses of British military equipment.

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Mayhew)

I have been asked to reply. On 26th March, the British Stores and Disposals Mission in Greece concluded an agreement with the Greek Government covering the disposal of such stores and equipment belonging to the British Army and the Royal Air Force as were declared surplus to their requirements prior to and when the British Forces were withdrawn from Greece, as a free gift to the Greek Government. The Greek Government were not in a position to buy them in bulk. Certain categories of stores were not included in this agreement. The most important exclusion was that of 2,000 motor vehicles of British origin. The Greek Government undertook to provide facilities both for the sale of these for export by His Majesty's Government, and for their safe custody until final sale arrangements could be made.

Mr. Macpherson

When these supplies are exhausted is it the intention of His Majesty's Government to send further supplies of war equipment and stores to the Greek Government.

Mr. Mayhew

No, Sir; but that is another question.

Back to