HC Deb 31 January 1951 vol 483 c897
52. Mr. F. Longden

asked the Minister of Defence if he will give the figures of the strength of the three arms of the United States military Forces, respectively, now stationed in Britain.

Mr. A. Henderson

The United States has about 1,500 naval, 15,000 Air Force, and 25 Army personnel in this country.

Mr. Longden

How long is this humiliating occupation likely to last?

Mr. Henderson

My hon. Friend will not expect me to accept his comment. They will be retained here as long as it is necessary in the interests of common defence, and until an effective system of collective security has been established.

Mr. Eden

Are not all welcome who freely come and freely go?