HC Deb 15 October 1969 vol 788 cc103-4W
Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what action has been taken on the Willoughby Report; and whether he will make a statement about British support for the defence of the Union of Arab Emirates.

Mr. Luard

General Willoughby presented his report to the Supreme Coun- cil of the Union of Arab Emirates at the end of April. A sub-committee was appointed to examine it and has made its own report. The Supreme Council has not yet taken a decision on the Willoughby Report.

Her Majesty's Government remain responsible for the defence of the Protected Gulf States until our withdrawal by the end of 1971 when our treaties of protection will be terminated.

Thereafter, as my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence said on 13th November last, defence will be primarily the responsibility of the States in the area.—[Vol. 773, c. 397–8.]