HC Deb 21 May 1952 vol 501 cc444-5
4. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Defence what conversations have taken place about the possibilities of training German and other foreign troops in Britain.

Mr. Birch

On 12th May my noble Friend the Minister of Defence had a preliminary discussion with the French Minister of Defence about the general arrangements for co-operation between the United Kingdom Forces and those of the future European Defence Community, including our association with them in matters of training. The possibility of members of the European Defence Forces attending courses in the United Kingdom was considered, but there was no suggestion that German or other foreign units should train in this country.

Mr. Hughes

Was this arrangement made before the arrangement for the German contribution to the defence programme was ratified?

Mr. Birch

The European Defence Community has not yet come into being, as the hon. Gentleman knows. This is a consideration of what might be done to co-operate with it if and when it comes into operation.