STRATEGIC PLANNING Withdrawal From Kenya Causes Defence Review

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30286, 12 November 1963, Page 10

STRATEGIC PLANNING Withdrawal From Kenya Causes Defence Review

(Special Correspondent N.Z.P.A.) LONDON, November 11. The Government is carrying out a sweeping review of Britain’s overseas defence policy and a decision can be expected soon on proposals to make major changes in the strength and location of forces east of Suez.

A "Daily Miail” correspondent, reporting from Aden. says the review would have considerable effects on foreign policy, defence costs and Britain’s relations with its allies. It has two main aims First, to find quickly a new and equally ideal springboard for vital strategic reserve troops and air forces now under notice to quit Kenya. Second, to try to find a longterm answer to toe question of whether the vast costs of overseas forces was balanced by the economic and political return they brought. The Kenya replacement plan now before Cabinet suggests about 2200 extra troops and two more R.A.F.

squadrons should be based The long-term economic in Aden. and political review will not An immediate answer is be completed tor at least 12 required so that a big new months but, meanwhile, two building scheme can be commands in Aden and rushed into action in Aden Singapore are preparing facts to receive reinforcements by and figures on their operatmidsummer. ing costs.