HC Deb 07 March 1917 vol 91 c378
31. Commander WEDGWOOD

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he will cause a record to be published giving the cases which have been brought to his notice where coloured Colonials have, at great personal risk, saved the lives of other coloured soldiers or white officers?

Mr. MACPHERSON

There is no record of the kind referred to; but I would remind my hon. and gallant Friend that there is no distinction of colour in awards-for gallantry in the field. As my hon. and gallant Friend knows, coloured Colonial troops have been granted decorations for gallantry in action in East Africa.

32. Commander WEDGWOOD

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War in how many cases the Victoria Cross has been conferred upon coloured Colonials for showing bravery in the field?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Up to the present, no award of the Victoria Cross to a. coloured Colonial has been made.

Sir J. D. REES

What is the proportion of coloured troops to European troops, and can any deduction be fairly drawm from that?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I must have notice of that question.

Sir J. REES

It is very small.

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