asked the Secretary of State for Defence what proposals he has to increase a British military and naval presence (a) in the Mediterranean and (b) East of Suez.

Although our main contribution to NATO is concentrated in other areas, we intend to play a full part in strengthening Alliance defences in the Mediterranean. As far as the United Kingdom presence East of Suez is concerned, we shall continue to deploy forces periodically in areas where we have considerable economic and political interests but no permanent forces. We shall also continue to give what military help we can in the provision of training, equipment and military assistance to friendly countries.