§ 70. Mr. Prittasked the Minister of Defence how many U.S. troops, including Army, Air Force and Naval personnel are stationed in this country; in what areas; for how long it is proposed that they will remain; under what agreements they are here; what steps are being taken to arrange for their return home; how much land has been requisitioned or withheld from release for their accommodation; and what expenses fall upon this country in connection with their sojourn here.
§ Mr. AlexanderI would refer the hon. and learned Member to the reply I gave last Wednesday to the hon. Member for Finsbury (Mr. Platts-Mills). There are about 6,000 members of the U.S. Armed Forces in this country, mainly in East Anglia, Lancashire and the London Area. When the time comes for their return home the United States authorities will of course make the necessary arrangement. No land has been requisitioned or withheld from release for their accommodation, and no additional expense is incurred by this country.
§ Mr. Platts-Millsasked the Secretary of State for Air on what authority approval has been given for the provision of gown shops, beauty parlours and drug stores, as amenities for the wives of United States Air Force personnel to be accommodated in the ex-R.A.F. camp at Burtonwood, Lancashire; and whether the cost of these amenities is being borne by his Department.
§ Mr. A. HendersonI understand that the United States Air Force are opening a "Post Exchange," their equivalent of a N.A.A.F.I. They will bear the cost themselves.