§ 41. Mr. F. Noel-Bakerasked the Minister of Defence how many members of Her Majesty's Forces belonging to which Services, were due to take part in the exercise "Medflex 3" in mid-June.
§ The Minister of Defence (Mr. Selwyn Lloyd)About 1,700, practically all of whom were from the Royal Navy and the Royal Marines.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerCan the Minister say whether he hopes and expects that there will now be a resumption of joint exercises with full Greek participation under N.A.T.O., pending the holding of the conference recently announced?
§ Mr. LloydI think that this matter is one in which the Greek Navy is concerned to some extent. The reason for the cancellation of this exercise given by the Commander-in-Chief was that the strain upon the Greek Navy as a result of the earthquake at Volos was such that it was unable to take part.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerIs the Minister entirely satisfied that those were the only reasons for cancellation? Further, can he say now whether any new joint exercises are planned?
§ Mr. LloydThe reply to the first part of that supplementary question is that we certainly accept the assurance given by the Greek Commander-in-Chief. In reply to the second part, I have nothing further to say.