§ 37. Mr. Ian Harveyasked the Minister of Defence whether, in the light of the acquisition of sovereign status by Western Germany, he will examine the rôle of Her Majesty's Forces in that country, with a view to recategorising their service as overseas service as opposed to home service.
§ Mr. Selwyn LloydService with the Second Tactical Air Force in Germany is already treated as overseas service by the R.A.F. With regard to the other Services, the balance of advantage from their point of view lies with maintaining the present position.
§ Mr. Harvey rose——
§ Mr. ShinwellMay I ask the right hon. and learned Gentleman whether, in view of the changed status of Germany recently announced, it is not time that the troops in Germany were regarded as part of an overseas force? What is the reason for retaining them in the Home Command except for the purposes of economy?
§ Mr. HarveyOn a point of order, Mr. Speaker. As I have asked the next Question, is it in order for the right hon. Gentleman to put a supplementary question on Question No. 37?
§ Mr. SpeakerThe Minister can answer the question if the right hon. Gentleman wishes to do so.
§ Mr. LloydI will answer the right hon. Gentleman, Sir. I adhere to what I have said. I think that the present position is of benefit to the forces and that should be the primary consideration.