HC Deb 24 October 1956 vol 558 c612
1. Sir L. Plummer

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will place in the Library particulars of those items in the list of arms and equipment which Israel has applied for and which Hear Majesty's Government have refused to supply.

The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Selwyn Lloyd)

No, Sir.

Sir L. Plummer

Does not the Foreign Secretary realise that it is difficult for us to evaluate the Government's constant statements that they are trying to maintain a balance of arms as between Israel and the Arab countries unless we have this information? If the right hon. and learned Gentleman cannot give this information, can he place in the Library a list of the articles for which the Arab countries have asked and which they have been granted?

Mr. Lloyd

I understand the hon. Member's difficulty, but in this matter the Government have to have regard both to the public interest and to peace in the Middle East.

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