§ 30. Mr. Quintin Hoggasked the Secretary of State for War, what information he has to give concerning the extent to which A.F. B 2626 has been completed by officers and men serving overseas.
§ Sir J. GriggAt a meeting held by my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary on 6th July, which the hon. Member attended, I undertook to do what was possible to get officers and men to complete A.F. B 2626. An Army Council Instruction has consequently now been issued which provides for a special effort to be made in all units of the Army throughout the world during the first half of November. Each individual is then to be asked whether he or she has completed the form, and those who have not done so will be given facilities forthwith to complete it, if they so desire. Units will then report the number of individuals who have elected not to complete the form. I hope to be in a position to make a statement on the results of these efforts in December.
§ Mr. BellengerDoes this include the large number of troops serving in India, or will they be dealt with by the Indian Government?
§ Sir J. GriggIt includes all British troops for whom I am responsible.
§ Mr. BellengerBut is the right hon. Gentleman responsible for the large number of British troops serving in India? If he is not, who will see about their votes?
§ Sir J. GriggThe commanders of the units in which they are serving will follow out the instructions which have been issued.