HC Deb 15 November 1955 vol 546 cc191-2
29. Mr. Fenner Brockway

asked the Secretary of State for War in what overseas territories National Service men are at present serving; and how many there are in each territory.

Mr. Head

I will, with permission, circulate the list of overseas territories in the OFFICIAL REPORT. We do not give the strengths in each territory.

Mr. Brockway

While waiting for those facts, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman to consider the example shown by certain European countries of not sending abroad their national service men?

Mr. Head

I know that the French have not done so because of their shorter period of service. I am not sure that the consequences have entirely justified that course.

Mr. Alport

Will my right hon. Friend also bear in mind that one of the compensations of National Service is the opportunity it provides to go overseas at the country's expense?

Following is the list of overseas territories in which National Service men are serving:

BERMUDA.

CARIBBEAN:

CENTRAL AFRICAN FEDERATION:

EAST AFRICA:

Fat EAST LAND FORCES:

FRANCE.

GERMANY.

GIBRALTAR.

KOREA.

MALTA.

MIDDLE EAST LAND FORCES:

WEST AFRICA: