§ Q5. Mr. Ridsdaleasked the Prime Minister what discussions he had when in the United States of America about the appointment of a successor to the present head of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation forces in Europe.
§ The Prime MinisterNone, Sir.
§ Mr. RidsdaleWhy does not the Prime Minister press for a British commander to 620 succeed the present Supreme Allied Commander in Europe? Would it not be a reminder to our political friends and others not so friendly that we have a deep commitment to the defence of Europe and also to the E.E.C. itself?
§ The Prime MinisterI think that our deep commitment to the defence of Europe is accepted by all our friends and even by those who may be, as the hon. Gentleman puts it, less friendly. I do not think that that would be either increased or derogated from by any pressure for a British officer. When the vacancy occurs, we shall enter into discussions with our allies in the normal way.