HC Deb 30 May 1961 vol 641 cc28-9
39. Mr. S. O. Davies

asked the Prime Minister if he has considered the resolution, a copy of which has been sent him, unanimously passed at a conference of delegates of the South Wales National Union of Mineworkers and the South Wales Federation of Trades Councils at Porthcawl on 13th May, protesting against the proposal to establish German troops in Wales; and what reply he has sent.

The Prime Minister

I have written to the hon. Member about this resolution.

Mr. Davies

That is perfectly correct, but may I ask whether the Prime Minister is aware that the people of Wales are not in the least impressed by the Government's feeble efforts to mask this evil intention by attributing to N.A.T.O. virtues which we in Wales know to be wholly non-existent?

The Prime Minister

This is a question on which, of course, I understand the difficulties that some people feel about any arrangements for the training of German troops in this country. However, the German Federal Republic is one of our allies in N.A.T.O., and other countries such as France and Holland which actually suffered occupation by German troops are making similar arrangements. We have not yet reached a definite decision. This is not a question of a base or anything of that kind. It is a question of facilities for training. We have to take the whole position that we are now in as it is today and think what is best for the N.A.T.O alliance as a whole.

Mr. Gaitskell

Let us at least get the facts clear. How many German troops are involved? What particular form of training are they engaged in? Are they training alongside British troops or on their own?

The Prime Minister

We have not yet reached a final decision because we have not a clear picture of what is wanted. It is a question of making an existing Army tank range available for tank training.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Will the Prime Minister give us an assurance that Spanish troops will not be here next year?

Mr. Davies

Owing to the most unsatisfactory nature of the Prime Minister's reply, I beg to give notice that I shall avail myself of the first possible opportunity on the Adjournment to raise this matter again.