§ 72. Sir J. D. REESasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether recent developments in Turkey, Mesopotamia, Persia, and the Middle East will occasion any change in the military administration of affairs in these countries; and whether the Mesopotamia Expedition is still controlled entirely by the Government of India?
§ Mr. TENNANTI cannot answer for changes that may be occasioned by future developments, but at present the Mesopotamia Expedition is controlled by the Government of India.
§ Sir J. D. REESMay I ask whether Mesopotamia is not rather remote from India, and whether its present close connection with Egypt does not make a change desirable?
§ Mr. TENNANTI am not aware of any geographical changes.
§ Sir J. D. REESAlthough the right hon. Gentleman may not be responsible for the geography of the globe, is he not responsible for answering as regards military proximity?
§ Mr. TENNANTIt is true that, measured by miles, Mesopotamia is nearer to Egypt, but for military convenience it has been arranged—and I do not think this is likely to be altered—that the Mesopotamia Expedition shall remain under the control of India.