HC Deb 06 April 1943 vol 388 cc476-7
21. Mr. Turton

asked the Secretary of State for War the percentage reduction in the staff of General Headquarters, Middle East Force, since the formation of Allied Group Headquarters?

Sir J. Grigg

I regret that the percentage is not readily available.

Mr. Turton

In view of the problem of man-power and the change in the military situation, is it not timely now to review the very considerable force of staff officers at Cairo?

Sir J. Grigg

This is a question which is continually under review.

Mr. Molson

If my right hon. Friend is not able to give the percentage, can he give, at any rate, the assurance that some reduction has taken place in the headquarters staff?

Sir J. Grigg

The process of adjusting the staff and the Forces in the Middle East to the military tasks which they are called upon to perform is one which is going on constantly.

Mr. Turton

Will the Secretary of State for War give an undertaking that the staff at Cairo is reviewed at an early date?

Sir J. Grigg

As I said, the review is constantly going on, and in fact papers relating to the question are on my table now.