§ 50. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Minister of Defence his estimate of the total sum spent on our armed forces in Egypt since the commencement of our dispute with the Egyptian Government.
§ The Prime MinisterI have given directions that the best estimate possible is to be prepared, but the accounting is complicated and may take some time.
§ Mr. HughesWill the Prime Minister explain why£5 million was released during the course of this expenditure from Egyptian sterling balances? It is the intention of His Majesty's Government to finance the Egyptian Government at the same time?
§ The Prime MinisterThis is not a question which can be answered on the spur of the moment across the Floor of the House; but any Question on this subject will receive a detailed reply from the Minister concerned. Very great restrictions have been imposed upon the withdrawal of sterling balances.