HC Deb 04 March 1924 vol 170 c1159
38. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for War how many British troops are stationed at home and how many abroad; how many of these latter are on territory outside the British Empire, not counting the Army of Occupation in Germany; and how many Indian troops are employed outside India?

Mr. WALSH

According to the latest return the number of British troops is 111,039 at home and 102,893 abroad, including India. In addition there are 3,140 Indian and Colonial troops serving under the War Office. Of these numbers 12,100 are in Egypt and 3,190 in the Middle East and in North China. There are also approximately 8,460 Indian troops outside India serving under the Air Ministry, the Foreign Office or Colonial Governments.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Does the Middle East in this case mean Iraq or does it include places outside it?

Mr. WALSH

Iraq mainly, but taking in some of the undefined and almost un-definable territory which adjoins it. I could give the exact line if my hon. and gallant Friend desires.