HC Deb 28 April 1947 vol 436 cc1523-4
43. Mr. Piratin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if the date for the withdrawal of British Forces from Greece has yet been fixed.

Mr. Mayhew

No, Sir.

Mr. Piratin

Will the hon. Gentleman recall that as long ago as October last he said that he was about to bring all troops home at the earliest possible opportunity? Will he say when that is likely to occur?

Mr. Mayhew

I cannot go further than saying that we shall withdraw them as soon as it is practicable.

Viscount Hinchingbrooke

Can the hon. Gentleman give us an assurance that British Forces will not be withdrawn from Greece before the Greek position, under the American proposals, has been consolidated?

Mr. Mayhew

We shall withdraw them as soon as it is practicable.

Mr. Piratin

Can the hon. Gentleman say for what purpose the troops are there?

Mr. Tiffany

Can my hon. Friend give an assurance that the recent American loan will in no way prejudice an early withdrawal of British troops from Greece?

Mr. Mayhew

Yes, Sir.

Sir T. Moore

Could the date happily coincide with the withdrawal of Russian troops from Hungary, which has also decided on the form of Government it desires?