§ 59. Mr. RENDALLasked the Secretary of State for War whether the 1/7th Hampshire Regiment have been stationed at Crater, Aden, since 5th January, 1918, and have been told that they are likely to be there till October; and when the many men at this station entitled to demobilisation may expect to return home for discharge?
Captain GUESTThe 1/7th Hampshire Regiment have been stationed at Aden since 5th January, 1918. I would refer to the statement I made on the 25th of February regarding troops in India and Eastern stations. The battalions detailed for foreign service are being organised for service abroad as quickly as possible, and if all goes well it should be possible to carry out these reliefs during the course of next autumn. As many men who are eligible for demobilisation will be sent home before the beginning of the hot weather as shipping facilities permit, subject also to the requirements for the minimum garrison.