HC Deb 16 November 1955 vol 546 cc419-20
61. Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Minister of Defence what stage has now been reached in the evacuation of British forces from the Suez Canal base.

The Minister of Defence (Mr. Selwyn Lloyd)

The evacuation of forces from the Canal Zone base is now about two-thirds complete.

Mr. Biggs-Davison

Can my right hon. and learned Friend assure the House that proper plans and arrangements have been made for the possible re-entry of British Forces into the base in conditions mentioned in the Suez Agreement?

Mr. Lloyd

As my hon. Friend knows, the withdrawal at present taking place is pursuant to the Anglo-Egyptian Agreement of 19th October, 1954. It is that Agreement which we are carrying out at present.

Mr. Stokes

Can the right hon. and learned Gentleman tell us approximately when the arrangements will be completed?

Mr. Lloyd

The right hon. Gentleman will remember the date. I think the evacuation was to be completed in June next year.