§ 15. Mr. C. J. M. Alportasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the withdrawal of a large pro- 798 portion of the garrison troops from Colchester has had serious consequences to the. trade and prosperity of the town; and whether he anticipates that it will be possible to replace some of these units in the near future.
§ Mr. HeadI much regret that the situation overseas has necessitated the withdrawal of troops from Colchester. In the meantime it is not intended to replace them by troops from elsewhere in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. AlportWhile we realise that the policy being pursued by the present Government is more likely to lead to an earlier return of these troops to this country than would have followed from the previous Government, will my right hon. Friend say whether it is intended, should that formation come back in the near future, to return it to this garrison town?
§ Mr. HeadWithout giving any categorical assurance of that possibility, I think it is more than likely.