§ 5. Mr. SANDERSONasked whether the Indian troops now at Shiraz are to be withdrawn; and, if not, whether an escort will be provided for British subjects now in Shiraz who, owing to the dangerous state of the trade roads, are unable to leave Shiraz or get down to the coast without proper escort?
§ Mr. ACLANDThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative.
§ Colonel YATEWill the hon. Gentleman answer the second part of the question?
§ Mr. ACLANDThe second part does not arise, as the answer to the first part is in the affirmative.
§ Colonel YATEHow are British subjects now in Shiraz to get to the coast?
§ Mr. ACLANDAs the answer to the first part is in the affirmative, that is to say, the force is to be withdrawn, they will have an opportunity of going down with the troops.
§ Mr. MITCHELL-THOMSONWhen is the withdrawal to take place?
§ Mr. ACLANDI cannot say exactly.
§ Mr. MITCHELL-THOMSONWill it be in the near future?
§ Mr. ACLANDYes.
§ Mr. WEDGWOODHas the hon. Gentleman's attention been called to the statement in the Press that it is impossible to withdraw these troops?
§ Mr. ACLANDYes, Sir. It is contemplated, in fact it is decided that the troops shall be withdrawn in the comparatively near future.