§ 13. Mr. HARRISasked the Secretary of State for War how many British troops are now stationed in the Rhine area; and if any reductions in their numbers are contemplated?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSThe strength of the British Army of the Rhine, excluding the small detachment in the Saar district, was approximately 6,000 on the 1st July. No reductions are at present contemplated.
§ Mr. HARRISDoes the right hon. Gentleman really consider it necessary to detain 6,000 troops in order to maintain order in this area?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSNo, I think that it is necessary to satisfy our treaty obligations.
Commander WILLIAMSUnder what Prime Minister was this Treaty first made, and what length of time was it for?
§ Captain GARRO-JONESCan the right hon. Gentleman communicate with the Quai d'Orsay in order to get their permission for the withdrawal of these troops, seeing that they no longer serve any useful purpose?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI observe the hon. Member's opinion, but I do not share it.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODIs it not a fact that the maintenance of these troops in Germany is chargeable to the Exchequer of this country and therefore, in the interests of economy, cannot the number be reduced?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI do not know that that question really arises from the answer. It is a very long and complicated question, the answer to which, with the hon. and gallant Gentleman's permission, I will defer.