33. Mr. FRANK GRAYasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he will inform the House of the number of troops now stationed in Northern Ireland, and the purposes for which they are stationed there; whether it is proposed to withdraw any of the troops; and, if so, at what date?
Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSThe number of troops at present is 10 battalions, but by the 1st April next it will be five battalions only, in each case with the proportionate ancillary units. Troops are stationed in Northern Ireland, as elsewhere in the United Kingdom, in order to occupy existing military accommodation and to discharge appropriate military functions.
§ Mr. HARRISAre these troops paid for by Northern Ireland, or by this country?