§ 25. Mr. F. Noel-Bakerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what casualties resulted from air raids by Royal Air Force aircraft during recent disturbances in Upper Yafa; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydThere were no casualties. Aircraft were used at the request of the Upper Yafa Sultan and his son to destroy houses of specified tribal leaders in the Sultanate who had been working to undermine the authority of the Sultan, with assistance from the Yemen. Due warning of the impending operation was given to the tribesmen concerned in leaflets dropped from the air and by word of mouth from the Sultan's representatives. The houses were empty when destroyed.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerIs it correct that aircraft were in operation over three days, 15th, 16th and 18th June, and very extensive damage was done?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydWhat happened was that effective bloodless police measures were taken in mountainous country where that is the only way to maintain proper authority.