Q11. Mr. Hellerasked the Prime Minister what plan the Government have for the withdrawal of British troops from Malaysia now that an agreement has been reached between Malaysia and Indonesia to end confrontation; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterWe hope that the agreement reached in Bangkok will be ratified by Indonesia and brought into practical effect as soon as possible. This will enable us to start reducing our forces in the theatre because, as the House knows, many of them have been sent there solely for the purpose of assisting in the defence of Malaysia and Singapore against Indonesia. The House will not expect me, in advance of the settlement itself, to specify the scope and timing of our withdrawals. I can, however, assure my hon. Friend we intend to take speedy264W action in withdrawing from the Far East every unit whose continued presence there ceases to be necessary.