§ 22. Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Secretary of State for War how many white troops we still have in Mesopotamia and Persia; how many have been sent home since the Armistice; how many who have been in Mesopotamia or Persia over-two years will have to spend the hot weather there; and what arrangements are being made to enable those with the longest service in those countries to return home first?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe strength of British white troops in Mesopotamia on the following dates was:
The number which left that country between 11th November, 1918, and 15th March, 1919, was 34,000. Under the Regulations at present in force the main qualification for demobilisation is length of service, and it is further provided in the Regulations that a proportion of each draft sent home for dispersal shall include men who have had the longest service overseas. Men are being brought home as rapidly as circumstances permit.
On 11th November, 1918 95,000 On 15th March, 1919 61,000 (Last return available.)