§ 13. Mr. Dribergasked the Under secretary of State for Air what are the present functions of the R.A.F. station, Azores; how many R.A.F. personnel are stationed there; and how soon this station is to be closed and these airmen repatriated.
§ Mr. StracheyThe Royal Air Force in the Azores provides meteorological, reconnaissance and air/sea rescue services, staging post facilities and navigational aids. Our commitment there is declining, but we cannot give a definite date for closing the station, nor would it be in accordance with present policy to give the numbers of our Forces in particular places overseas. I can, however, say that before long we hope to repatriate the majority of the Royal Air Force who are now. serving in the Azores.
§ Mr. DribergCan my hon. Friend also give an assurance that there are not now more men there than are needed. to do those special jobs he mentioned?
§ Mr. StracheyYes, Sir, I think I can give that assurance.
§ Wing-Commander HulbertWhat conceivable objection is there to giving the number of men in the Azores today?
§ Mr. StracheyThere has been a Government decision that the number of men in particular fields or areas all over the world should not be given.