HC Deb 26 November 1970 vol 807 cc592-3
10. Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Minister of State for Defence what British forces remain in Malagasy; and for what purposes.

Lord Balniel

A Shackleton detachment, forming the air element of the Beira patrol, is based on Majunga airfield in the Malagasy Republic.

Mr. Biggs-Davison

Has there been a reduction? What is the cost? If we are to keep forces in Malagasy, would it not be better to transfer them from this infructuous operation against an ally and use them for surveillance in the Indian Ocean?

Lord Balniel

These detachment duties are confined entirely to the Security Council resolution relating to Rhodesia, and there is no wider commitment involving surveillance in the Indian Ocean. The cost is of the order of £400,000 a year.

Mr. Dalyell

Have the Government talked to the Malagasy Government about the proposed £120 million staging post in the Indian Ocean?

Lord Balniel

I have nothing to add to the information which has already been made available to the hon. Gentleman.