HC Deb 14 April 1926 vol 194 cc190-1
18. Sir FREDRIC WISE

asked the Secretary of State for War what was the cost of moving the British Army of Occupation from Cologne to Wiesbaden?

The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Sir Laming Worthington-Evans)

On the information at present available, the cost of moving the British Army of Occupation from Cologne to Wiesbaden is estimated at, approximately, £160,000. This figure represents the cost of evacuating buildings at Cologne, of transporting the troops to Wiesbaden, and of the initial works services required for their reception and accommodation.

Sir F. WISE

Is this paid by the German Republic?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON - EVANS

There is a refund of part on the Reparation Account.

Sir F. WISE

Why is it not paid by the German Republic?

Commander O. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Are any troops left in this area?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

There are troops in Wiesbaden, but not in Cologne.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Will the right hon. Gentleman give the number of the troops in Wiesbaden?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON - EVANS

Yes, after notice. It is, approximately, 9,000.

Sir JAMES REMNANT

Is there any estimate of the cost of the troops remaining there?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON - EVANS

The figure I have given is the approximate cost of moving.

Mr. N. MACLEAN

Would it cost very much more to bring that army back to Britain?