HC Deb 28 May 1918 vol 106 cc658-9
23. Mr. KING

asked the Minister of National Service whether he has figures showing the number of subjects of Italy,. Greece, Japan, the United States, and Portugal now in this country and of military age; and whether it is proposed, by convention, legislation, or otherwise, to make these men available for an increase of the military man-power of the Allies?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of NATIONAL SERVICE (Mr. Beck)

The number of men of the nationalities referred to who are between the ages of eighteen and forty-three are approximately as follows:

Italians … … 11,250
Greeks … … 1,200
Japanese … … 600
Americans … … 6,000
Portuguese … … 750

With the exception of the Italians, the figures are those of 1st July last. Accurate numbers of the men of these nationalities over the age of forty-three are not at present obtainable. As the hon. Member is aware, a convention has already been concluded with Italy, and is at present in operation, while in the case of America a convention was signed at Washington on the 19th February, 1918. As regards Greece, Japan, and Portugal, in view of the small number of men who would be available for service, it is not at present proposed to conclude a convention with these countries.