HC Deb 07 July 1958 vol 591 cc3-4W
41. Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the latest intelligence about the safety or otherwise of British subjects and British property in the Lebanon; how many British subjects have been evacuated from the country since the outbreak of the rebellion, and how many remain; and what guarantees have been given, or arrangements made, for the protection of British lives and property.

43. Mr. P. Williams

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will make a further statement on the situation in the Lebanon with particular reference to the safety of British subjects there.

Commander Noble

My latest information is that all British subjects in the Lebanon are safe and that with the exception of damage early in the crisis to the Iraq Petroleum Company pipeline, which has now been repaired, there has been only slight damage to British property.

Although all the families of Iraq Petroleum Company personnel in Tripoli, where the heaviest fighting has taken place, have left the Lebanon, there has been no general evacuation of British subjects and in the view of Her Majesty's Government none is at present necessary. Our Ambassador in Beirut has suggested to the British community that, in view of the uncertain situation, and since the present situation makes it unlikely that the community will be able to avail themselves of the normal hot season amenities, it would be sensible to send wives and children away from the country if they want to go.

The responsibility for the protection of British lives and property is in the first place that of the Lebanese Government, but Her Majesty's Government have however taken certain routine precautions.