§ 36. Mr. THURTLEasked the Secretary of State for Air the present strength of the garrison at Aden; and whether this represents an increase or decrease compared with the position two years ago?
§ Mr. F. G. PENNY (Lord of the Treasury)I have been asked to reply. The Aden garrison is composed of one British battalion; two batteries, Royal Artillery; one Fortress Company, Royal Engineers; one squadron, Royal Air Force; one armoured car section, and ancillary services. The present strength represents a decrease in numbers as compared with two years ago, the withdrawal of an Indian infantry battalion and a reduction in ancillary services having more than counterbalanced an increase in the Air Force strength from a flight to a squadron.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODIs the cost of this force, which was previously borne by the Indian Government, now all borne by the British taxpayer?