§ 51. Mr. Wiggasked the Minister of Defence what representations have now been made by the United States Government complaining that Britain has violated the Mutual Defence Assistance Agreement after having been warned by the United States Government on 3rd November that the United States equipment supplied for the defence of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation area must not be used against Egypt; and what reply he has sent.
§ Mr. HeadNo representations on this subject have been received from the United States Government since they sent Her Majesty's Government a copy of their statement to the Press on 3rd November. This did not call for a reply.
§ Mr. WiggAgain the right hon. Gentleman is not answering the Question. Is not he aware that the Defence Department in Washington made a statement on 15th November saying that the British 1241 and French Governments had violated an Agreement which they had entered into in 1950? Was not that statement broadcast by the B.B.C.?
§ Mr. HeadA statement was reported in The Times on 16th November, but what I have said in answer to the hon. Member's Question is correct. The only official representation that we have had was this copy of their statement to the Press on 3rd November.
§ Mr. WiggOn a point of order. In view of the disingenuous and unsatisfactory reply given by the right hon. Gentleman—
§ Mr. SpeakerI wish that the hon. Member would conform to the rules of the House.
§ Mr. WiggIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the right hon. Gentleman's reply, I beg to give notice that I shall take an early opportunity of raising this matter on the Adjournment.