HC Deb 12 December 1927 vol 211 cc1847-8
61 and 62. Mr. WELLOCK

asked the Secretary of State for War (1) how many British troops are now in Shanghai;

(2) how many more British troops are now in China than were in the country prior to the sending out of the Shanghai Defence Force?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Commodore Douglas King)

In addition to the normal establishment of three battalions, there are now nine infantry battalions in China, of which six are at Shanghai.

Mr. WELLOCK

Does that include the troops on their way to China now?

Commodore KING

I answered that question last week. The only troops on their way are drafts for reinforcements.

Sir H. CROFT

Is it proposed to set aside a day for Parliament to thank the troops in China for the exemplary conduct they have displayed?

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Are we to understand that there are only British infantry in China now, and no tanks or guns?

Commodore KING

No; ancillary troops, as I have said. They include those necessary for the support of the infantry. With regard to the other question, Wednesday's Debate would give the hon. and gallant Gentleman the opportunity he wants.

Mr. LOOKER

Is it proposed to make any reduction in the numbers of the Shanghai Defence Force in the near future?

Commodore KING

There is no reduction beyond those that have previously been notified.

63. Mr. TREVELYAN

asked the Secretary of State for War how many Indian troops were taken to China during this year; how long they remained there; and whether they have now all been returned to India?

Commodore KING

Four infantry battalions, together with ancillary troops, were sent to China from India at the beginning of the year, Of these battalions, two were British and two Indian. Two battalions returned to India in July and most of the rest of these troops returned in September and October. There are now only a few invalids from this Indian contingent remaining in China.