§ 1. Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCKasked the Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that Indian troops who enlisted for the duration of the War are still serving in Mesopotamia and Northern Persia without having had any leave in India; and whether he will take immediate steps to remedy this injustice by arranging a proper system of leave for these troops?
§ Sir ARCHIBALD WILLIAMSON (Parliamentary Secretary, War Office)My right hon. Friend (Mr. Montagu) has asked me to answer this question. I understand that Indian troops in Mesopotamia have been granted leave as far as the exigencies of the service permit. A report from the General Officer Commanding has, however, been called for on the matter, and I will write to the Noble Member as soon as it is received.
§ Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCKIs it not a fact that a number of these men who enlisted only for the period of the Great War, and although two years have elapsed they are still being retained with the colours?
§ Sir A. WILLIAMSONI cannot give details without notice, but if the Noble 338 Lord will put a question down I will answer it.