HC Deb 24 December 1929 vol 233 cc2111-2
80. Captain BOURNE

asked the Secretary of State for India whether mechanisation is being adopted by the Indian Army; and, if so, to what extent?

gallant Member's permission, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Captain CROOKSHANK

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are more there now than in the time of the first crisis?

Mr. ALEXANDER

The figures are set out in the answer. I would ask the hon. and gallant Gentleman to wait and examine them. Some submarines about which some doubt has been expressed will be leaving shortly.

Captain CROOKSHANK

Are we to understand that the present Government think it a very wise thing to keep an adequate force there to protect British interests?

Mr. ALEXANDER

The present Government always take adequate steps to protect British interests.

Captain CROOKSHANK

Since when has the right hon. Gentleman come to that opinion, in view of statements which he has made previously?

Following is the table:

The SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Mr. Wedgwood Benn)

Yes, Sir. Steps are being taken to mechanise Cavalry Brigade and Divisional Trains, and Field Artillery Brigades and Divisional Ammunition Columns.

Captain BOURNE

Is it possible to use any of these units on the North-West Frontier?

Mr. BENN

That is a different question, of which I must have notice.