HC Deb 11 April 1932 vol 264 cc538-9
24. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs with what purpose British troops are engaged in military operations in Kurdistan; and whether he will make a statement on their progress?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Sir Robert Hamilton)

I have been asked to reply. As regards the reason for the operations in progress, I can add nothing to the reply which my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies returned last Wednesday to the hon. and gallant Member for the King's Norton Division (Major Thomas), but I wish to make it clear that the operations are being conducted by the Iraqi Army, and that the only British forces engaged are the Royal Air Force machines which are co-operating with the Iraqi Army and Air Force. I understand that satisfactory progress is being made.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Are the British Air Force operations being carried on at our cost, or at the cost of the Iraqi Government, as regards any damage to planes, and so on?

Sir R. HAMILTON

Any question as to cost should be put down.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Have there been any casualties?

Sir R. HAMILTON

That question, also, had better be put down.