HC Deb 31 October 1944 vol 404 cc606-7
12. Captain Duncan

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he intends to use Paris and Brussels for local leave to British troops in North-West Europe; to what extent each city is to be available; and what arrangements are being made for the troops' accommodation and entertainment.

Sir J. Grigg

The use of Paris and Brussels for local leave is a matter for the Commander-in-Chief; Brussels is already available for this purpose and I understand Paris will be shortly. Accommodation in both cities is or will be provided by hostels run by N.A.A.F.I. and the voluntary bodies in concert with Army Welfare Services. As regards entertainment in Brussels, I would refer to a reply I gave on 24th October to my hon. Friend the Member for Newport (Sir R. Clarry). The Department of National Service Entertainment is prepared to supply entertainment to Paris if necessary.

Captain Duncan

In view of the fact that Brussels is in the British zone, will my right hon. Friend direct as much entertainment as he can to Brussels, rather than to Paris, which is not in the British zone?

Sir J. Grigg

That is a different question, and I would like notice of it. Questions which involve the relationships between constituent parts of the Allied Armies are sometimes rather delicate.