§ 96. Mr. W. Shepherdasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has advised the U.S. authorities of the difficulties of accommodation in this country for the wives of U.S. Service men now serving in this country; and if he will make a statement.
The Minister of State (Mr. McNeil)Yes, Sir. Discussions have been and will continue to be held as necessary with the American authorities with a view to assisting the latter to find accommodation for the wives of United States Service men stationed in this country whilst interfering as little as possible with the normal housing requirements in the areas concerned.
§ Mr. ShepherdWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that there is some cause of friction here? Is he aware that people in my constituency look upon some of these Americans who are coming over with a lot of money and paying for accommodation as rather undesirable competition? Will he draw this fact to the attention of the American authorities?
Mr. McNeilI am sure that that point will be held in mind. As I understand the arrangements, there are certain preliminaries to be observed by the United States before agreement is reached about wives travelling here.