§ 8. Mr. P. A. HARRISasked the Undersecretary of State for War whether it is intended to utilise the services of the men from forty-three to fifty called to the Colours for service in India; and, if so whether the Government has given due consideration to the fact that it is difficult for older men to adapt themselves to new climatic conditions and the hardship it entails on middle-aged men to be sent so far from their homes?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Macpherson)I regret that I can give no pledge that such men will not be sent to India, but I can assure my hon. Friend that the utmost care will continue to be exercised to ensure that men sent overseas are fit for the duties they will be called upon to perform.
§ Mr. HARRISWill the right hon. Gentleman take medical advice on the desirability of sending middle-aged men to a tropical climate, and does he realise the unrest caused amongst these older men at the suggestion that they may be sent a long distance away from their homes?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI will bring all these facts before the military authorities concerned.
§ Colonel Sir J. CRAIGIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a great many men have expressed a desire to go to India if possible?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONYes, I am aware of that.