HC Deb 27 April 1944 vol 399 cc912-3
16. Miss Ward

asked the Secretary of State for India if he will make a statement on the policy to be followed to safeguard the interests of members of His Majesty's services in India whose demobilisation may not take place until after the Far Eastern war is over.

Mr. Amery

This is a general problem which affects the British Services as well as the Indian Army. The hon. Member can rest assured that these matters are receiving consideration. As my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister recently stated, His Majesty's Government do not consider the present a timely occasion for discussion of demobilisation plans.

Miss Ward

Is the Minister aware that his answer will give great dissatisfaction in India; and will he make a statement on how the interests of these people are to be safeguarded, after the demobilisation of people in the other theatres of war takes place? Does he not recognise that it is urgent that they should know?

Mr. Amery

Most of these matters are of great importance, but they are all intimately connected with the whole problem of demobilisation.

Miss Ward

Can the Minister say that the interests of these people in the Far East are being protected?

Mr. Amery

They are certainly being carefully considered.