§ 56. Mr. Swinglerasked the Minister of Defence what consultations he had with the Governor of Cyprus before sending reinforcements to Cyprus; what requests were made for reinforcements; and why parachute troops were sent.
§ Sir W. MoncktonThe Governor of Cyprus was fully informed of Her Majesty's Government's intention to send reinforcements to the Middle East and he concurred in this. As has already been announced, this step has been taken as a precautionary measure in view of the disturbed position in the Middle East. The purpose was to increase the forces available locally for the protection of British subjects in the area should the need arise. Parachute troops were included because they are highly mobile and therefore well suited for this task.