asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has asked the Egyptian Government to help in reducing thefts of British Army stores in Egypt; and what has been the result of his request

No, Sir. The British military authorities in Egypt are in close contact with the appropriate Egyptian authorities on this matter and receive valuable co-operation from them. An approach to the Egyptian Government on the diplomatic level is not considered necessary.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the appalling losses suffered in Egypt in 1948 and 1949, recently disclosed in the Army Appropriation Account, and will he reconsider this matter to see whether by approaching the Egyptian Government at diplomatic level he can get something done about it?

The situation has substantially improved since 1948. Steps have been taken, and the situation now is considered far more satisfactory.

Considering that we gave away millions of pounds worth of military stores to the Egyptians, why should we go to the trouble of stopping them from pinching a bit more?