S.E.A.T.O. Exercise, Thailand

HC Deb 26 June 1963 vol 679 cc1318-9

13. Mr. Healey

asked the Minister of Defence if he will make a statement on British participation in exercise "Thanarat" recently held in Thailand.

Mr. Thorneycroft

British forces taking part in this S.E.A.T.O. exercise included a battalion headquarters and one company of the King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry, some armoured cars and detachments of administrative support units. The R.A.F. provided air transport support, a squadron of Canberras and a squadron of Hunters.

Mr. Healey

Is it not the case that the exercise has revealed serious weaknesses and deficiencies in the equipment of British Forces, particularly jungle boots, packs and rations? Can the right hon. Gentleman say what steps are being taken to remedy these deficiencies?

Mr. Thorneycroft

No, Sir, but the object of an exercise is to reveal deficiencies. That is what we had it for. I hope that no one will discourage exercises of this kind, because they are an invaluable part of the training of the British Army.