§ 16. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Secretary of State for War whether any steps have been taken to raise and train native levies in Mesopotamia; and, if so, what progress has been made?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of EDUCATION (Mr. Herbert Fisher)The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. There are 13 units of levies sanctioned, each under a British commandant. There are 6,228 non-commissioned officers and men, nearly half being mounted, and 67 officers. There are two more units under consideration.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYCan the right hon. Gentleman hold out any hope that this excellent policy will lead to a very great reduction in the near future of our troops in Mesopotamia?
§ Mr. FISHERI take it that is one of the objects.
§ Mr. FISHERThey are Arabs and Kurds.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODAre Indians being used to officer the corps?
§ Mr. FISHERWill the hon. and gallant Member give notice of that question?