HC Deb 16 November 1960 vol 630 cc366-7
20. Mr. Grimond

asked the Minister of Defence whether he is satisfied that there is a sufficient mobile reserve to enable the country to discharge its commitments; and what study is being made of those commitments.

Mr. Watkinson

I am satisfied that our plans will provide us with an adequate mobile reserve. As to commitments, a review has recently been completed. This has taken into account, among other things, constitutional developments that have already taken place in our dependent territories and likely changes in our responsibilities in the future.

Mr. Grimond

Are we to have a statement on the results of this review? It seems puzzling to many of us that units which are notoriously far under strength are now apparently expected to fulfil the same commitments as they would if they were up to strength.

Mr. Watkinson

I do not accept that for a moment.