54. Sir J. D. REESasked the Lord Privy Seal if he can give the House any further information regarding the position on the Lower Euphrates?
§ Sir A. WILLIAMSON (Parliamentary Secretary, War Office)My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply. The 34th Brigade Column, under Brigadier-General Cuningham, which relieved Rumeitha, had reached Jerbuiyah, en route to Hillah, on 7th August. The newly laid railway lines, since the raids, have been distorted by the extreme heat, and this has caused the delay of the return of this relief column. On the 4th August, rebels concentrated for attack on Hillah, but were frustrated by a cavalry reconnaissance. The Kufa garrison is still holding out. The health of the troops is good, although the heat and weather are very oppressive. All the railways in Mesopotamia are intact except between Samawah and Mahmudiyah. Arab raids still go on.
§ Sir A. WILLIAMSONI am afraid I cannot answer that question.
§ Viscount CURZONOf what is the garrison at Kufa composed?
§ Sir A. WILLIAMSONI cannot say, without notice.