§ Mr. MORGAN JONESasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the defence of Egypt is still under British control; whether under the recent Anglo-Italian Air Convention Italian military as well as civilian aircraft are to be entitled to use British air-lines and British aerodromes in Africa; and whether Italian aircraft destined for Eritrea will be permitted to fly over Egyptian territory?
§ Sir J. SIMONHis Majesty's Government are fully aware of their responsibilities under the declaration of February, 1922. The answer to the second part of the question is that the convention in question only applies to civilian services, and in any case does not apply to Egypt. As regards the last part of the question, the Italian Government would, no doubt, in accordance with the ordinary practice, first apply to the Egyptian Government for permission if they desired their military aircraft to fly over Egyptian territory.