HC Deb 27 February 1957 vol 565 c1203
2. Mr. Swingler

asked the Minister of Defence if, in the light of Her Majesty's Government's claim to take independent military action in certain fields, he will instruct the Service Departments to keep equipment received under the Mutual Defence Assistance Agreement separate from British equipment.

Mr. Sandys

That would not be practicable.

Mr. Swingler

Is it not a fact that we accepted this American equipment on the understanding that it was to be used only in pursuance of policies approved by the United States? Is it not a fact also that this agreement was violated in the case of the intervention in Suez; and, in the light of Her Majesty's Government's claim to independent action, how does the Minister propose to prevent further violation?

Mr. Sandys

I feel that the United States Government are well able to look after their own interests without any help from the hon. Member.

Mr. Wigg

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that his predecessor said that all the equipment was muddled up? Is it not about time that it was un-muddled so that the Minister of Defence may know what equipment he has got?

Mr. Sandys

It is not a question of being muddled up, but it is very difficult to keep it separate.

Mr. Swingler

Is it not a fact that the American Government made a protest about the use of this equipment, to which Her Majesty's Government were unable to make any reply?

Mr. Sandys

That does not happen to be the fact.