Persian Gulf (British Forces)

HC Deb 12 June 1968 vol 766 c234

44. Mr. Goodhart

asked the Secretary of State for Defence when the reduction of British forces in the Persian Gulf will begin.

Mr. Reynolds

We are maintaining a good deal of flexibility in our planning; I cannot go beyond saying that the reduction will begin in time for our withdrawal to be completed by the end of 1971.

Mr. Goodhart

When does the Minister expect to be able to make a firm statement about the future of the Trucial Oman Scouts? Will he give an assurance to the House that the withdrawal of British forces from the Gulf will not begin before our local defence treaties have been renegotiated?

Mr. Reynolds

All these matters are being looked into now. That is why I cannot give a detailed answer at the present time.

Mr. Tapsell

Has any consideration been given to the question of the Gulf States supporting the costs of British troops in the Gulf?

Mr. Reynolds

This was explained in the defence debate. Only a small part of the cost of the military presence in the Gulf is the actual cost of the troops present there. Many millions of pounds have to be spent on various units and other facilities in the United Kingdom which are necessary to back up a military presence in the Gulf or any other part of the world.