HC Deb 15 May 1957 vol 570 cc377-8
4. Mr.Lipton

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty why the Mediterranean Fleet's flagship, H.M.S. "Birmingham", was recently diverted from Middle East manoeuvres to Cannes.

Mr. Soames

After completing her part in the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation exercise "Medflex Epic", Her Majesty's Ship "Birmingham" visited Cannes from 9th— 14th May in order' to "show the flag" during the International Film Festival. The visit was particularly appropriate since the British film "The Yangtse Incident" was being exhibited.

Mr. Lipton

Is it true, therefore, that a royal command to send a warship to Cannes was issued by Miss Anna Neagle?

Mr. G. R. Howard

Would my hon. Friend say whether these manoeuvres were taking place in the Eastern Mediterranean, as the Question would seem to imply, or not?

Mr. Soames

No, Sir, they were not. They were taking place west of Malta.