HC Deb 15 November 1916 vol 87 c754
5. Commander WEDGWOOD

asked the Secretary of State for India whether the resources of the figthing races of India, coloured, white, and Anglo-Indian, from the voluntary recruiting point of view, have been exhausted; and, if so, whether he will suggest to the Indian Government the possibility of compulsion?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I am in communication with the Viceroy as to the possibility of further developing the military resources of India under the voluntary system. I can make no further statement at present.

Commander WEDGWOOD

Will my right hon. Friend remember in this connection the possibility of employing native officers in Indian regiments more largely than at present?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I hope I am bearing in mind every relevant consideration.

Sir JOHN JARDINE

Is it a fact that a levy of natives of Burmah has been raised and dispatched?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I should like to have notice of a question of that kind. I think the raising of a pioneer company is in contemplation or actually in execution, but I do not think there has been anything like the raising of a levy or regiment.

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