HC Deb 16 June 1921 vol 143 cc601-2
79. Sir C. YATE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what steps have been taken to enlist the Assyrian refugees in Mesopotamia in the local Mesopotamian forces; how many have been enlisted up to the present time; and how many are considered to be fit for enlistment?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. E. Wood)

Recruitment of Assyrians for the local levies is proceeding. The High Commissioner reported some time ago that 250 recruits had been obtained. I do not doubt that the number is now considerably greater; but I am awaiting full details by despatch. The total number of Kurdish and Assyrian levies which it is proposed ultimately to raise is 2,500.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Are they being used in Southern Palestine?

Mr. WOOD

I am afraid that I cannot add anything to what my right hon. Friend said in his speech recently.