§ 2. Mr. MORRELLasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he can state approximately what is the number of Russian troops now in Persia, and whether any have been withdrawn since 1st January, 1912, except when replaced by others?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Sir E. Grey)The answer to the first part of the question is 17,500, so near as can be ascertained. In reply to the second part, adequate information regarding most places is not available, though in August last there was a reduction of 400 men at Meshed.
§ Mr. MORRELLIs it a fact that in the autumn 1,000 troops were withdrawn from Tabriz, but were only moved to Khoi, and are still in Persian territory?
§ Sir E. GREYPerhaps the hon. Member will give me notice of that.
§ 3. Mr. MORRELLasked whether the British and Indian troops recently stationed in Southern Persia have now been withdrawn; and what is now the total number of troops left in Persia?
§ Sir E. GREYAs regards the first part of the question, the whole of the 39th Central India Horse and also a detachment of some sixty Infantry hitherto stationed at Shiraz have been withdrawn and are on the way back to India. The answer to the second part of the question is approximately 750 men.
§ Mr. MORRELLWas there any difficulty about the withdrawal of these troops? Were any attacks made upon them?
§ Sir E. GREYNo, I believe the withdrawal was carried out without any difficulty.
§ Mr. ARNOLD WARDCan the right hon. Gentleman state the reason why they were withdrawn?
§ Sir E. GREYBecause there was no further need for them at Shiraz. They had been there for some considerable time, and it was very desirable that they should be relieved as soon as possible.