§ 24. Lieut.-Colonel Sir JOHN NORTON-GRIFFITHSasked the Secretary of State for War whether leave can now be given for officers, non-commissioned officers, and men quartered in Iraq to I have facilities granted for their wives 1131 to be with them, under similar conditions as prevail with the British troops in occupation of German territory?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for AIR (Mr. Leach)I have been asked to reply. I am afraid that the conditions in Iraq cannot be said to be similar to those which prevail in German territory. In the former place (Iraq) there is practically no private accommodation procurable. The climate is unsuitable for women and children, except in suitable accommodation, and, in view of the limited period during which Imperial troops are likely to remain in Iraq, it is not possible to provide accommodation out of service funds. I regret, therefore, that I am unable to see my way to grant this concession at present, and for this reason that the period of service in Iraq is considerably shorter than on most foreign stations.