HC Deb 23 November 1943 vol 393 cc1413-4
5. Major Nield

asked the Secretary of State for War when the hope, which he has expressed, to be able to reduce the term of a soldier's service overseas from six to five years may be expected to fructify?

Sir J. Grigg

I hope that a start will be made at the end of this year with those who have been overseas for over five years.

Mr. John Dugdale

Does this apply also to men serving in the Indian Army, or does it apply only to the British Army?

Sir J. Grigg

I am not sure. I would like to have notice of the question. It certainly applies to the British Army serving in India. So far as I can remember, there are no British other ranks serving in the Indian Army; the only British personnel in the Indian Army are officers. But perhaps the hon. Member will put the question down.