Fox: Tories will withdraw UK troops from Germany

Published on Saturday 21 November 2009 00:53

THE Conservatives have committed to end 70 years of history by withdrawing all troops from Germany.

Shadow defence secretary Liam Fox has said it is "no longer necessary" to maintain the presence of more than 20,000 military personnel. Ending the commitment would free up forces to carry out vital Nato operations outside of Europe, he said.

Generations of squaddies have passed through Germany since the end of the Second World War, although the size has been scaled down. The presence is now centred on Herford near Hanover, where the 1st Armoured Division is based.

A final decision will depend on negotiations with Nato allies.

Dr Fox insisted: "If other countries are willing to take up roles in continental defence, that leaves Britain and France able to take on expeditionary roles.

"Finding a more creative diplomatic solution in Nato will be a priority for an incoming Conservative government."