HC Deb 25 January 1949 vol 460 cc719-21
16. Sir John Graham Kerr

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware of recurring outrages against Europeans in the Suez Canal zone, culminating in the case of a young officer who within a few days of joining his unit was beaten up, stripped and left for dead; if he is aware of the indignation caused by the enclosure of the wives and children of British troops within the barbed wire defences of the camps; and if he will see to it that the authorities are provided with a reinforcement of European police adequate to guarantee safety within a reasonable distance outside the camp boundaries.

Mr. Shinwell

I am aware of the unprovoked attack on the officer referred to, and a few other isolated cases of violence against members of British Forces in the Canal Zone. I am not, however, aware of any indignation having been caused by enclosing the wives and children of British troops within the perimeter of their camps. This is a security measure designed for their protection against such assaults.

Military police at present maintain patrols in all areas occupied by Service personnel, and even if more police were available complete safety could not be guaranteed against attacks outside camps.

Sir J. Graham Kerr

May I ask the Minister if he is aware that the safety, not merely of British subjects, but of one of the great trade routes of the world is dependent on the maintenance of British prestige in the Middle East?

Mr. Shinwell

That is perfectly true. Nevertheless, officers, other ranks and all concerned must obey the instructions, and, if they fail to do so, then we obviously cannot provide safeguards.

Mr. Bramall

Can my right hon. Friend say from which side of the Egyptian frontier the assailants came?

Mr. Shinwell

Not without notice.

Major Legge-Bourke

Is it not a fact that the conditions in this particular camp are disgraceful, and that there are no worse conditions under which British troops have to serve? Will the Minister take a very early opportunity of rectifying the whole matter?

Mr. Shinwell

I would be very glad to do so, but there are physical difficulties.