HC Deb 21 November 1985 vol 87 c252W
Mr. McNamara

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he has had with the Nepalese Government concerning the Brigade of Gurkhas.

Mr. Stanley

Her Majesty's Government maintain close and regular contact with the Government of Nepal on matters concerning the Brigade of Gurkhas. My noble Friend the Minister of State for Defence visited Nepal between 25 and 31 October.

Mr. McNamara

asked the Secretary of State for Defence (1) how many battalions of the Gurkhas he plans to disband;

(2) if he plans to make a statement concerning the planned strength of the Gurkhas when Hong Kong is returned to the People's Republic of China.

Mr. Stanley

I cannot add to the Ministry of Defence news release of 27 September headed "Hong Kong Stability Permits Force Reductions", a copy of which is in the Library.