§ 5. Mr. Hal Millerasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the present level of family remittances by Gurkha troops serving in the British Army; and what is the estimated decline in their volume following the reduction in strength announced in the defence review.
§ Mr. Robert C. BrownUnder family remittance facilities provided by the Brigade of Gurkhas an average of about £39,000 is sent home monthly, but these facilities are not used by all Gurkhas, some of whom choose to provide for their families in other ways. Since it is not possible at this stage to say exactly how the reductions in the Brigade of Gurkhas will be effected, I cannot predict the effect which such reductions will have on the level of Gurkhas' remittances home.
§ Mr. MillerDoes the Minister accept, however, that the Gurkha remittances play a vital part in the economy of certain parts of Nepal? Will he give that factor consideration when considering the necessity or otherwise of Gurkha cuts, particularly as the Sultan of Brunei is willing to pay for the Gurkha battalion?
§ Mr. BrownAs I said in my original answer, I cannot say at this stage what effect the reduction will have on the level 250 of remittances home. The plans for the reduction will be discussed with the Government of Nepal.