HC Deb 20 July 1925 vol 186 cc1817-8
78. Sir F. WISE

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the cost of the Army of Occupation and the Air Forces in Egypt in 1913–14 and in 1925–26, respectively.

Mr. GUINNESS

The cost of the British Army in Egypt and the Sudan for 1913–14 was £634,127 as shown on page 89 of the Army Appropriation Account for that year. The estimated cost for 1925–26 is £3,050,000. There were no Air Forces in Egypt and the Sudan in 1913–14. The estimated cost of such forces for 1925–26 is £1,170,000.

Captain ARTHUR EVANS

Can the right hon. Gentleman give us the combatant strength of our Army of Occupation?

Mr. GUINNESS

It would be more satisfactory if the hon. and gallant Member would put down a question addressed to the Secretary of State for War.

Mr. HARRIS

Is Army of Occupation a correct description of our army in Egypt?

Mr. GUINNESS

It is the description usually given.

Mr. THURTLE

Do the Government contemplate the early withdrawal of our Army of Occupation?

Mr. GUINNESS

That is not for me to say.