HC Deb 03 February 1954 vol 523 c363
54. Mr. G. Jeger

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will now permit the sale of war material to Communist countries on the same terms as to Spain and Egypt.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

No, Sir.

Mr. Jeger

Could I invite the Minister to explain his preferential treatment for Fascist countries which are guilty of almost daily aggressive acts against British lives and property?

Mr. Lloyd

I think the two sets of circumstances are quite different.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

Will my right hon. and learned Friend assure the House that no trade such as the selling of jet engines to Russia will ever be done again?

Mr. Lloyd

We shall be guided in this matter by considerations of national security.

Dr. King

Would the Minister not agree that Fascism is at least as great an enemy to democracy as Communism? Why should he seek to strengthen one if he will not strengthen the other?

Mr. Lloyd

The consideration in this matter is one of national security.

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