§ 48. Mr. Gordon-Walkerasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether arrangements have now been made for the progressive withdrawal of occupation troops from Austria.
§ The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Mr. John Hynd)I have at present nothing to add to previous replies on this subject.
§ Mr. Gordon-WalkerIs the Minister aware of the great inflationary dangers caused by the expenditure of occupation troops, not so much our own alone, but all occupation troops?
§ Mr. HyndHis Majesty's Government are fully aware of the cost of the commitments they have entered into as a result of various international agreements that have been made, and these matters are receiving very careful attention.
§ Mr. Henderson StewartCan the Minister say definitely that His Majesty's Government are endeavouring to reduce those Forces?
§ Mr. HyndIt has already been stated in the House by myself and, I believe, by the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, what His Majesty's Government desire in this direction, but obviously the situation in the occupied territories is dependent upon international agreement.
§ Mr. EdenCould not the Minister make clear to the House what I understand is the position, that His Majesty's Government wish to see this vast army which lies upon Austria reduced at the earliest possible moment?
§ Mr. HyndIt is the desire of the Government that all vast armies that may be abroad involving the Government in commitments should be reduced at the earliest possible moment, and in accordance with the policy of the Government 25 the position in Austria should be relieved as soon as practically possible by quadripartite agreement.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas MooreHave we expressed our views to our Allies on this subject?