HC Deb 20 February 1952 vol 496 cc21-2W
Mr. Legh

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what military supplies have been made available to the Yugoslav Government by Her Majesty's Government; what are the financial arrangements made in respect of these supplies; and what is the total cost of those so far provided.

Mr. Nutting

As a result of examination in July and August, 1951, by the Service Ministries of existing stocks, and of discussions with the Yugoslav authorities, it was agreed that certain items of military equipment would be shipped to Yugoslavia as a gift. It is expected that equipment to the value of £3¼ million will be shipped within the course of the present financial year, and that further shipments will be sent next year. This equipment is being supplied without detriment to the needs of the United Kingdom Forces and is separate from the economic aid programme announced in the House on 5th July last, under which no items of direct military use are being made available.

When Parliamentary approval is sought of the Supplementary Estimate for funds for assistance to Yugoslavia, an additional and separate item will be inserted to cover this military aid, and to provide for the re-imbursement by the Foreign Office of the cost of the equipment provided by the Service Ministries