HC Deb 16 May 1922 vol 154 cc208-9
10. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for War if he can state the monthly cost of the British Army of Occupation in Constantinople; and whether he hopes to recover this money from the Turks?

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Sir Robert Horne)

The monthly cost of the British Army of Occupation is £220,000, as shown on page 19 of Army Estimates, 1922–23: these expenses would be recoverable from Turkey under Article 236 of the Treaty of Sevres, but it is not at present possible to state in what way (if any) this Article will be modified before the Treaty with Turkey comes into force.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether he hopes to recover this money?

Sir R. HORNE

Really one cannot speak about hopes.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

The British taxpayer is paying the money, and are we to understand that it will be recovered from the Turks?

Sir R. HORNE

The hon. and gallant Gentleman must understand exactly what I have stated.