HC Deb 22 June 1920 vol 130 cc1991-2
21. Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

asked the Secretary of State for War if he can give the House any further information regarding the situation in and near Mosul and as to the causes of the recent outbreaks?

Mr. CHURCHILL

As the result of the operations of the punitive column sent out from Mosul on 4th June, the hostile Arab gathering in the Tel Afar district have dispersed. There have been attacks on the lines of communication between Samarra and Mosul, all of which have been repulsed. The cause of the recent outbreaks is not known, but they are probably inspired by the Young Arab party, as stated in the reply to a question put by the hon. and gallant Member for Gateshead (Brigadier-General Surtees) on the 17th June.

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

Has the right hon. Gentleman received any information as to whether the motor cars seized by the Arabs have yet been recovered?

Mr. CHURCHILL

No, Sir.

Mr. RONALD McNEILL

Can the right hon. Gentleman give any information as to what British casualties there were in these operations?

Mr. CHURCHILL

There were two officers and about 12 soldiers killed.

Sir D. MACLEAN

Did those include any white British troops, or were they entirely Indian troops?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The casualties to which I am referring occurred to white British troops.