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Pull Out of NZ Forces From Singapore May Have Its Problems

Major units of the New Zealand Force stationed under the five-power defence arrangement are likely to remain for the next two years years before withdrawal moves begin, said NZ Defences Minister, Mr W.A. Fraser. He said: "New Zealand's forces have been stationed in the Malaysia-Singapore area now for about 20 years, and there are particularly difficult problems to be faced in returning 1,000 personnel and their families (about 14,000 dependents) to New Zealand." For the NZ Defence Department, service in Singapore has been a major enticement in recruitment. In commenting on remarks made by the Acting Prime Minister (Mr Tizard) that NZ troops in Singapore are to be withdrawn, Mr Rowling said that the troops have not been told to pack their bags. He said that the withdrawal of the New Zealand forces had been discussed fully with Mr Lee Kuan Yew about a month ago. At that particular time in NZ, Lee claimed that he was having his holidays.