HC Deb 16 March 1955 vol 538 c1279
20. Mrs. Castle

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General what stage he has reached in his negotiations with the United States Air Force concerning the restrictions, on security grounds, of the entry of Post Office staff to United States Air Force stations in Britain for the maintenance of Post Office equipment.

Sir E. Boyle

Negotiations have now reached an advanced stage, and my hon. Friend is hopeful of achieving a solution satisfactory to all parties.

Mrs. Castle

Would the hon. Gentleman agree that the demand of the American Air Force that British Post Office workers should not be allowed to maintain Post Office equipment at United States air bases in this country is an insult to patriotic workers, who have full access to all British military establishments? Will he give an assurance that no extra-territorial rights will be allowed to the U.S. Air Force in this country, and that no decision will be reached on this matter without full agreement with the Staff Side of the Whitley Council?

Sir E. Boyle

I do not propose to add anything to what I have already said. I should have thought that the hon. Lady would be glad that my hon. Friend was hopeful of achieving a solution satisfactory to all parties.

Mr. W. R. Williams

Am I to understand from what the Minister has said that British Post Office workers cannot go on to United States premises?

Mrs. Castle

That is quite right.

Sir E. Boyle

I do not propose to add anything further.