HC Deb 29 January 1958 vol 581 cc68-9W
61. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Minister of Defence if he will give an estimate of the extent by which defence expenditure could be reduced in the event of Russia agreeing to Her Majesty's Government's proposal for a non-aggression pact.

Mr. Sandys

The signing of a non-aggression pact would not by itself enable us to reduce our expenditure in any way at all. On the other hand it might, together with other steps, help to create a more favourable atmosphere for disarmament.

Mr. Swingler

asked the Minister of Defence if he will make a statement on the changes in the United Kingdom's military commitments and obligations in the last six months, and the effects these changes will have on defence expenditure.

Mr. Sandys

I would ask the hon. Member to await the publication of the Defence White Paper next month.