§ 49. Mr. Bennasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many British helicopters have been supplied to the French Government for use in Algeria to the last convenient date; how many are still on order from his Department; and what is the policy of Her Majesty's Government towards the supply of these aircraft for this purpose.
§ Mr. Selwyn LloydIt has been the policy of successive Governments not to disclose details of military equipment sold to foreign Governments. As hon. Members will be aware, the French Government have the full sympathy of Her Majesty's Government in their efforts to re-establish peaceful conditions in Algeria.
§ Mr. BennIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that American, French and British newspapers have reported a supply of helicopters by Britain to France, including eight from the R.A.F.? If the Foreign Secretary only intended to give that reply, why were my Questions transferred to him by the other Departments to which they were originally addressed?
§ Mr. LloydAs far as the latter part of the supplementary question is concerned, I do not know. But even if what the hon. Gentleman is suggesting is correct, I do not think there is anything frightfully lethal in the supply of helicopters.