HC Deb 05 July 1967 vol 749 c1800
19. Mr. Lubbock

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the estimated cost of trooping for stations east of Suez in the year 1967–68.

Mr. Rees

The cost of trooping to stations east of Suez other than by Transport Command during the current year is estimated at £4.6 million. Of this, some £300,000 is for sea passages.

Mr. Lubbock

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the cost of air mobility services as given by the Defence White Paper is £140 million and that this is bigger than even the turnover of the British Overseas Aircraft Corporation? Will he say what reductions he expects to make in the costs of these services as and when we can withdraw from the Far East?

Mr. Rees

As to the last part of the question, the hon. Gentleman will have to await further announcements. With regard to the difference between the figures, Transport Command—now to be renamed Air Support Command—has commitments in all parts of the world. However, the cost of trooping is negligible because the flights would have to take place in any event.

Mr. Onslow

When does the hon. Gentleman hope to make a statement on the recent Report of the Estimates Committee on trooping contracts?

Mr. Rees

Shortly, Sir.