HC Deb 26 July 1950 vol 478 c450
62. Mr. Vane

asked the Minister of Defence which countries are sending army contingents to take part in this summer's manœuvres with the British Army of the Rhine; and what proportion of the total Forces taking part will be found by the British and other Armies, respectively.

Mr. Shinwell

American, Belgian and Danish contingents are participating in these manœuvres to the extent of a quarter of the total Force; the remainder will be provided by the British Army.

Mr. Vane

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think it is disappointing that there is no French contingent taking part? Also, can he say approximately what is the strength of "a quarter"? Is it 500 or 50,000, or what?

Mr. Shinwell

I cannot reply to the latter part of that supplementary off-hand, but the French associated themselves with the British and other contingent in last year's manœuvres.

Brigadier Prior-Palmer

Would the right hon. Gentleman consider allowing Members of the House to visit these manœuvres as observers, as they did last year?

Mr. Shinwell

I rather think it is a little too late, but I will look into that suggestion. I invited several hon. Members from both sides of the House to accompany me last year. I am not going this year, but I welcome the opportunity of providing facilities if it can be done.