HC Deb 11 July 1927 vol 208 cc1739-40
35. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that the First Cameronians, of the Shanghai Defence Force, on their arrival in Hong Kong on the 6th of March last, were sent to the Sun-Wai camp in Fanling and were kept there for three weeks in great discomfort, owing to the rainy season and the fact that their tents were frequently flooded out; why proper accommodation was not provided for these troops; and whether arrangements will be made to accommodate all British troops in China in suitable buildings?

The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Sir Laming Worthington-Evans)

When it was decided to despatch the Shanghai Defence Force to China immediate steps were taken to prepare adequate accommodation for the troops, but as barracks are only maintained at military stations for the permanent garrison, improvised arrangements were necessary to deal at short notice with the large influx of troops into Hong Kong. The Cameronians were accordingly placed temporarily under canvas.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer the last part of my question as to whether accommodation has now been provided?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON - EVANS

I believe that to be so; but I would not like to say that there was no unit still in temporary accommodation.

Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

In view of the service for which these troops were ostensibly sent to China, surely we can rely on the foreign communities there to see that the troops are provided with suitable buildings in the rainy season?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON - EVANS

As I told the hon. and gallant Gentleman, I believe they are now all under cover and not under canvas, but I am not absolutely sure.

36. Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, when further reductions are found possible in the Shanghai defence force and other expeditionary forces in China, Section A reservists will be sent home first?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

I am not in a position to state on what basis further reductions in the Shanghai defence force will be made, should opportunity occur. But I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to my statement on 28th June that the contract with the reservists will be carried out strictly.