HC Deb 10 February 1948 vol 447 cc197-8
20. Mr. Sidney Shephard

asked the Secretary of State for War the number of British troops stationed in Paris and their duties.

Mr. Shinwell

It is contrary to practice to disclose the number of British troops in a particular area. British military personnel in Paris are engaged on work in connection with graves services, claims against the British Army, liaison with the French Army and various administrative duties.

Mr. Shephard

Will the Minister satisfy himself, in view of the limited manpower of this country, that these men are really needed in Paris?

Mr. Shinwell

They would not be there if they were not required. I am advised that the actual numbers are very small, and, in the course of a few months, we shall reduce them to insignificant proportions.

Mr. Piratin

May I ask the Minister if he would confer with the Minister of State, who last week gave me an answer on a similar Question regarding the number of troops in Europe and said they were only stationed in Greece and Trieste? Would he consult his right hon. Friend in order to present the House of Commons with reliable information?

Mr. Shinwell

I am always ready to confer with any of my colleagues.