§ Mr. Turtonasked the Secretary of State for War why the continuance of two H.Q's. in Egypt, H.Q's., B.T.E. and G.H.O. M.E.F. is still necessary; and whether to economise in man-power and promote efficiency, he will cause one of these two H.Q's. to be wound up.
§ Mr. LawsonThe necessity for continuing these two headquarters has been kept under constant review. G.H.Q., Middle East, is responsible for the general Army administration of the whole of the area comprising the Middle East and for Army policy throughout that area. It is not considered practicable in present circumstances to add to these broad functions the detailed responsibility for any one command; a return to the pre-war organisation would not be conducive to efficiency until more normal conditions prevail in the Middle East. These views were confirmed by two examinations of the problem held in 1944. The strength of both Headquarters is under constant review and substantial reductions are being made.
§ Mr. Turtonasked the Secretary of State for War what reduction in base establishments and H.Q's. in Egypt have been effected since the Battle of Alamein in November, 1943.
§ Mr. LawsonI regret that the information asked for is not available and could not readily be obtained. So far as British troops are concerned, the available figures show that a reduction of over 35 per cent. was effected in Egypt between April, 1944,970W and September, 1945, apart from the major fighting formations. Further reductions are planned.