§ 55 . Mr. Patrick Maitlandasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many British military personnel, on service in the Suez Canal Zone, were absent without leave to the last convenient date; and in how many cases their absence is attributed to kidnap.
§ Mr. Selwyn LloydThe figure on 27th January was 20. Of these, at least four are believed to have been kidnapped.
§ Mr. MaitlandIs my right hon. and learned Friend aware that there is rising public indignation at the Egyptian Government's cynical disregard for our established Treaty rights? The public can neither comprehend nor appreciate the style of latter-day diplomacy which accords to our avowed and professed enemies the gentlemanly forbearance that belongs to trusting friendship?
§ Mr. LloydMy hon. Friend's Question deals with British military personnel who are absent without leave. The figure for Egypt is not larger than that in other theatres.
§ Mr. MaitlandIs my right hon. and learned Friend not aware that he has twice stated on the Floor of the House his view that the Egyptian Government could prevent many of the incidents that have been occurring?
Mr. I. O. ThomasCould the Minister indicate how he reconciles his answer to the Question in regard to the supply of war materials for Egypt with his answer in regard to the circumstances arising out of these attacks by Egyptian nationals on British soldiers in the Suez Canal area?
§ Mr. LloydThe matter with which we are primarily dealing in this Question is that of military personnel absent without leave. Four of these are believed to have been kidnapped but it is difficult to acquire evidence in these cases. When such evidence is acquired representations are, of course, made and inquiries are furthered. In fact, some of these people turn up later.