§ 16. Mr. THURTLEasked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to the statement made to the Russian Soviet Union Congress, on 19th May last, by a representative of the Russian Government to the effect that the total strength of the land forces of the Russian Soviet Republics does not exceed 520,000; and whether the official estimate of his Department has been revised?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI have seen a statement in the Press that the Army of the Russian Soviet Republics is reported to have been reduced to 562,000 men. This total, however, omits a large number of formations which are maintained by conscription, and are embodied for training during eight months in the year. I see no reason at present to revise the estimate which I have given in answer to previous questions on this subject.