HC Deb 14 February 1967 vol 741 c63W
41. Sir G. Nabarro

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what strategic, economic, financial and political benefits for Great Britain will result from his decision to accept 100 United States naval vessels at Hythe, Hants, and Poole, Dorset; in view of Great Britain's pending application to join the European Economic Community, why Great Britain is accepting North Atlantic Treaty Organisation responsibilities cast off by France; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Healey

The vessels, mainly landing craft, tugs, barges and floating cranes, are part of the United States Army reserves now being relocated from France. They will be stored and maintained by civilian contract at Hythe in Hampshire and at Poole The contracts will provide regular employment for about 100 men and payments of the order of £100,000 per annum in dollars.

Acceptance of the United States request is fully in accord with our common interest as members of N.A.T.O. and is in no way inconsistent with the Government's policy on the European Economic Community.