§ 8. Sir J. D. REESasked the Secretary of State for India whether he can give the House any information regarding the part taken by Indian troops in the recent victorious operations in Palestine?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe General Staff inform me that they have as yet received no detailed reports or dispatch from General Allenby regarding the recent operations, and therefore I am not in a position to add materially to the published accounts regarding the gallantry and dash shown by the Indian troops in the operations referred to.
General Allenby's force includes over 100,000 Indian troops. All accounts that I have seen testify to the courage, discipline, and endurance of all ranks. It is particularly gratifying to note that the new Indian units which have replaced European troops sent for service to the Western Front rivalled the conduct of veteran troops and fought in a manner worthy of the high traditions of the Indian Army.
General Allenby himself has telegraphed to me that Indian Cavalry and Infantry have taken a leading and brilliant part in the fighting, and I am proud to say that Indian Cavalry formations figures prominently in the long-distance ride which has led to the fall of Damascus and Homs.
I am confident that when full dispatches are received they will be found to endorse the high opinion of the Indian troops that has already found expression in the Press.