HC Deb 05 July 1967 vol 749 cc1801-2
21. Mr. James Davidson

asked the Secretary of State for Defence why the coastal minesweeper force based in Hong Kong is to be withdrawn.

Mr. Foley

A coastal minesweeper force is being retained in Hong Kong for the time being.

Mr. Davidson

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether it is the intention that the force should remain there for the foreseeable future or whether it is intended to withdraw it and rebase it in Singapore or bring it back to home waters?

Mr. Foley

We are looking again at the detailed arrangements. I should prefer not to commit myself at this stage, but should like to see how the situation develops.

Mr. Rankin

With such a powerful array of United States naval units in Victoria Harbour, is there any need for us to keep these forces there?

Mr. Foley

So far as we are aware, none of the American forces in the area is there to protect the waters or to assist in the defence of Hong Kong.