HC Deb 08 July 1919 vol 117 cc1583-4
18. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked the Secretary of State for War how many troops are now in Mesopotamia; what is the percentage of sickness per month at the present time; and whether soldiers who have been there more than two years without leave and have been several times in hospital with dysentery could be sent to a hill station in India for the hot season?

Captain GUEST

The latest return shows that the strength of British troops in Mesopotamia on the 24th May, including officers, was 26,291. The average percentage in hospital during March was approximately 3.6 per cent. These are the latest figures available. As regards the last part of the question, my right hon. Friend can assure my hon. Friend that everything possible is done to safeguard the health of the troops. My right hon. Friend is, however, obtaining a report from the authorities in Mesopotamia, and will write to my hon. Friend later.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Arising out of the answer to the latter part of the question, can I be informed whether native levies are being raised to relieve these troops?

Captain GUEST

There is no reference to that in the question on the Paper.