§ 15. Mr. Stokesasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that approximately 20,000 acres of arable land in Kreis Brilon in Southern Westphalia have been requisitioned for an. artillery range for the Belgian army, which will result in the loss in production of 10,000 tons of potatoes and 1,000 tons of grain, as well as other animal fodder; and whether he will take steps to have this requisitioning cancelled.
Mr. McNeilI greatly regret that I am not yet in a position to answer this Question. I will, of course, communicate with my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. StokesWhen considering this matter, is it not a fact that the Belgians 6 have quite adequate artillery ranges at home without occupying foreign territories like Kreis Brilon, and why cannot they go home to practice instead of destroying valuable arable land?
Mr. McNeilI will consider the matter when I have all the facts. I apologise to my hon. Friend for not having them.