HC Deb 29 June 1920 vol 131 cc226-7
32. Dr. D. MURRAY

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can state the number of troops in the Constantinople area on 1st April and on 23rd June respectively; and how many troops were in course of transport to that area on the latter date?

Mr. CHURCHILL

No, Sir; I do not think it desirable to disclose the exact strength of British forces in this theatre of actual military operations.

33. Dr. MURRAY

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can state the number of troops in Mesopotamia and North-West Persia respectively on 1st April and 23rd June?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I do not see the same objection to giving information in regard to Mesopotamia. Although there is fighting going on there, it is of a sporadic character, and I do not think any harm would be done by giving the numbers asked for.

Lieut.-Colonel J. WARD

Why? I would ask the right hon. Gentleman to consider whether, knowing that there are actual operations pending in this area, it is advisable to give the enemy the assistance that is suggested.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Who is the best judge of that?

HON. MEMBERS

Not you!

Mr. CHURCHILL

I think the right course for the Minister responsible to take is to give all possible information to the House without saying, in fact, how many men are in particular garrisons. I do not think it does any harm to show what is the general position of our forces in Mesopotamia.

Sir J. REMNANT

In spite of the wishes of the whole House?

Mr. CHURCHILL

As a matter of fact the figures have been laid before Parliament in printed documents, and there has been very little change, as will be seen when I read them out.

— MESOPOTAMIA. N.W. PERSIA.
British Army, All Ranks. Indian Army, All Ranks. British Army, All Ranks. Indian Army, All Ranks.
1st April, 1920 11,450 57,900 1,050 10,100
23rd June, 1920 (Approximately.) 9,800 55,500 3,700 (Including troops in Summer Camp at Karind.) 10,500

The figures for the Royal Air Force are:—

— Mesopotamia. N.W. Persia.
On 28th March 49 officers 4
548 other ranks 13
318 natives 9
On 14th June (latest return). 75 officers 5
562 other ranks 26
307 natives 5
Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

May I ask if that number includes followers?

Mr. CHURCHILL

No.