HC Deb 17 November 1958 vol 595 cc104-5W
64 and 65. Mr. P. Williams

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies (1) to what extent continuous watch is maintained around the coast of Cyprus to prevent the illegal import of arms; and with what results;

(2) to what extent continuous air patrols are now being flown around the coast of Cyprus to prevent the illegal import of arms; and with what results;

(3) to what extent continuous patrols are being carried out around the coast of Cyprus to prevent the illegal import of arms; and with what results.

Mr. Profumo

Continuous patrols by sea and air are maintained by ships of the Royal Navy supported by naval and Royal Air Force aircraft both by day and night around the island. In addition radar shore stations keep a twenty-four hour watch. A number of harbour launches stationed at the main ports carry out security patrols of the anchorages. There is every reason to think that the measures taken to prevent importation of arms by sea and air have been very effective.