HC Deb 02 December 1919 vol 122 cc189-90
29. Mr. ALBERT PARKINSON

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that a large number of British soldiers at Basrah, Mesopotamia, are employed as clerks keeping Indian records, many of whom joined the Army under the Derby scheme, between 1st January and 1st July, 1916, and were with their units in the field until April, 1919; and whether he will issue orders for men of the class stated to be demobilised at the earliest possible date?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The instructions at present in force provide for the dispatch from the port of embarkation of the men referred to by the hon. Member to be completed by 1st November, 1919, subject to the necessary transport being available. Instructions have already been sent by cable to Mesopotamia that men whose release is overdue are to be sent home by the first available ships.

Mr. G. LAMBERT

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether there is any difficulty in obtaining transports to bring home these men, who are long overdue?

Mr. CHURCHILL

There are a considerable number of ships on the way, and they may arrive any day.