HC Deb 06 July 1925 vol 186 cc4-5
12. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what is the cost of the Civil Service in Iraq per annum in pounds sterling: how many persons are in it; and how many of these are of British birth or descent?

Mr. AMERY

The cost of the Iraq Civil Service for the past financial year was approximately £1,090,000. I am unable to give the total number of persons in that Service, but it contains at. present approximately 155 British officials.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what is the percentage of British officials represented by this number?

Mr. AMERY

I could not give the percentage, because I do not know the total, but it is very small.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Could we not have some sort of estimate of the total number, because I want to know the proportion of British officials? Has the right hon. Gentleman any further information to give me which will throw light upon that point?

Mr. AMERY

I will try to get it, but the proportion is a very small one indeed.

Sir F. WISE

Is this a reduction?

Mr. AMERY

Yes, the numbers have been steadily reduced during the last few years.

Sir F. WISE

And the cost?

Mr. AMERY

Yes.

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