HC Deb 25 January 1971 vol 810 cc24-5
12. Mr. William Clark

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is the present state of discussions in the North Atlantic Alliance on the level of United States forces in Europe.

Sir Alec Douglas-Home

No discussion is in progress in N.A.T.O. and, in view of President Nixon's welcome assurances, none is needed.

Mr. Clarke

Would my right hon. Friend not agree, nevertheless, that whether or not Britain enters the Common Market it would also be desirable to maintain a presence of United States forces in Europe?

Sir Alec Douglas-Home

Yes, Sir.