HC Deb 05 December 1946 vol 431 cc500-1
45. Brigadier Fitzroy Maclean

asked the Prime Minister whether it is the intention of His Majesty's Government to retain a British Occupation Force in Japan.

The Lord President of the Council (Mr. Herbert Morrison)

I have been asked to reply. Yes, Sir; but it may be reduced. His Majesty's Government are anxious to reduce their military commitments throughout the world and, in view of the degree of stability already achieved in Japan under Allied occupation, they have been considering the possibility of reducing the United Kingdom element in the British Commonwealth Occupation Force in Japan. As other Commonwealth Forces are involved, and the command is held by an Australian, we are at present discussing this possibility with the Governments of Australia, New Zealand and India. The United States Government and General MacArthur have been informed of our proposal. I would emphasise that all that is contemplated is a partial reduction of the United Kingdom Forces, and the strength of the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force elements will not be affected.

Brigadier Maclean

Can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that such British troops as are left in Japan will be enabled to represent British interests properly, and also that life will be made bearable for them?

Mr. Morrison

I am sure the Government will do all they can in those respects.

Mr. Ronald Chamberlain

Does not my right hon. Friend feel that an equally important, if not more important, matter is to strengthen our very weak civilian personnel, seeing that General MacArthur seems so anxious to keep our noses out of Japan?

Mr. Morrison

That question had better be put on the Order Paper. It does not, I think, bear sharply on the Question that was on the Order Paper.

Mr. King

Will my right hon. Friend say if any change in area is contemplated, and if His Majesty's Government would press to have our troops put in more populous areas, so that they would be given greater access to more amenities?

Mr. Morrison

I am afraid I am not in a position to answer that point. Perhaps my hon. Friend would put down a Question.