§ Mr. Masonasked the Lord Privy Seal (1) whether Her Majesty's Government are aware of the growing exports of Russian arms to the Arab States; what understanding has now been reached between Her Majesty's Government and the United States of America on the maintenance of the balance of military power in the Middle East; and if he will make a statement;
(2) if he is aware of the growing military strength of the Egyptians and other 38W Arab States, and of the concern that the military balance of power is becoming upset; and what plans Her Majesty's Government have to assist Israel to maintain the status quo in this respect.
§ Mr. P. ThomasHer Majesty's Government are aware that the Sovietbloc has been supplying arms to some Arab States for a number of years and continues to do so. We are in regular touch with our United States allies on this and other problems affecting the Middle East. It remains Her Majesty's Government's policy to avoid any action which might promote an arms race in the area but to be ready to consider requests from any State in the area for arms required for its self-defence. It is not, however, Her Majesty's Government's practice to disclose details of arms supplied to particular countries.