§ Mr. A. R. W. Lowasked the Secretary of State for War what is the tonnage of Army stores and equipment now in Palestine and Egypt; and how much is to be evacuated prior to August, 1948.
§ Mr. ShinwellThe total tonnage of Army stores and equipment now in Palestine and Egypt is 1,550,000 tons. It is proposed to retain 623,000 tons, of which 50,000 tons of material in short supply will be returned to the United Kingdom and the remainder will be used to meet the needs of the Forces in the Middle East. The other 927,000 tons are being offered to the Ministry of Supply for disposal. It is hoped that the stores in Palestine which we wish to retain will be moved by August, 1948.
§ Mr. LowWill the right hon. Gentleman say whether or not a planned evacuation of these stores from Palestine is being maintained?
§ Mr. ShinwellThe right hon. Gentleman knows the circumstances. I should say, "Yes."