§ 49. Mr. Chetwyndasked the Minister of Defence whether he will withdraw sufficient troops and installations in Germany to equate commitments of this country with the amount to be received in support costs from the West German Government.
§ Sir W. MoncktonThe level of our forces in Germany is necessarily governed by other considerations, such as strategic needs and treaty commitments.
§ Mr. ChetwyndIs the Minister aware that the Government have nevertheless made a very bad bargain indeed over the agreement? Are we not in grave danger of breaking our backs economically while maintaining an illusion of strength in Germany? Is it not time we had an overall discussion with our Allies in N.A.T.O. about the whole basis of our forces in Germany?
§ Sir W. MoncktonAs to our position in N.A.T.O., it is a matter for discussion between the various countries there represented as to what the shape and size of the forces ought to be. That consideration is continually taking place in S.H.A.P.E.