Armies of Occupation (Hansard, 21 August 1945)

9. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Ian Fraser
asked the Secretary of State for War what facilities are provided for telegraphic communication between persons in this country and officers and men of the armies of occupation in Europe.

§ Mr. Lawson
The only facilities available to North West Europe are those which enable next-of-kin to send telegrams, by normal Army channels, about urgent private affairs. The question of the provision of a private telegraph service is under constant review but there is no possibility at the moment of providing anything quicker than the present air mail service. In the case of C.M.F. there are in addition three telegraphic services available through the G.P.O.

§ Sir I. Fraser
Will my right hon. Friend consider both in Europe, and now that the war in the East has ended, that, if men are restless away from home and want to get back, he can do a great deal to restore their peace of mind and that of their relations if he gives them the very best possible telegraphic and postal service?

§ Mr. Lawson
Yes, Sir, I will be pleased to give consideration to that suggestion.

42. Lieut.-Colonel Lindsay
asked the Secretary of State for War when it will be possible for men of the Army of Occupation to have their families with them.

§ Mr. Lawson
I regret I can see no prospect at present of arranging for men of the Armies of Occupation to have their families with them. The accommodation and transportation requirements alone would present formidable difficulties.

Lieut.-Colonel Lindsay
Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that many of these officers and men have now been separated from their families for four or five years, and that many of them are likely to remain in Germany for a number of years further? Will he bear in mind that it is a long-term policy which is desired?

§ Mr. Lawson
I agree that this would be a very desirable thing in view of the facts which the hon. and gallant Gentleman has mentioned, but Field-Marshal Montgomery quite recently stated definitely that the conditions were such that he could not support the proposal.