Gurkha Brigade (Hansard, 16 November 1966)

§ 4. Mr. Allason
asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the future of the Gurkha Brigade.

§ 83. Mr. Boston
asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about the future of the Gurkha Brigade.

§ The Minister of Defence for the Army (Mr. G. W. Reynolds)
My right hon. Friend is considering this matter and will make a statement as soon as possible.

§ Mr. Allason
Is the Minister aware that a very early decision is needed on this because of the effect it will have on the morale of Gurkha troops and on the financial position of Nepal, since the 413 intention was that Gurkhas should remain at their present strength only to the end of confrontation? Is the Minister aware that last week the Commonwealth Secretary said that the confrontation ended last August?

§ Mr. Reynolds
I can assure the hon. Member that my right hon. Friend is aware of all the considerations that the hon. Gentleman has mentioned, and that a statement will be made as soon as possible.

§ Mr. Boston
Will my hon. Friend accept that the Gurkha Brigade is held in very high regard both in this House and in the country, and that those who have had an opportunity of visiting some of their units know that their morale is also very high indeed, but that an early announcement is hoped for? Can he give us any idea when he will be in a position to make one?

§ Mr. Reynolds
Other than saying that it will be as soon as possible I am afraid that I cannot add anything at the present moment. But I can assure my hon. Friend that Her Majesty's Government value the many connections that we have with Nepal and the Gurkha Brigade.