§ 16. Mrs. Nicholasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what steps His Majesty's Government have taken to assist the Governments of India and Pakistan in their efforts to relieve sickness and suffering among the refugees who have entered those countries as a result of the recent disturbances.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerShortly after the troubles in the Punjab began, I met the officers of the British Red Cross Society, and inquired whether they could help to relieve the suffering of the refugees. They told me that they were already sending out some medical supplies and agreed to despatch substantial further quantities. These supplies have been flown to India and Pakistan. After further discussion and a survey of conditions on the spot, the Society are arranging to set up a hospital, and some time ago they sent out a Commissioner to work with the Red Cross Societies of India and Pakistan. To begin with, the Society paid for what they did from their existng resources; and they have decided to spend a further substantial sum. They have also launched a public appeal for funds; this appeal has the most cordial support of His Majesty's 1845 Government, who have decided to make a contribution. I should like to express the Government's warm gratitude to the Society for what they have done.
§ Mr. Hector HughesHas the right hon. Gentleman any specific information as to the numbers and location of refugees needing assistance and the organisation and personnel to deal with the help which is being accorded to them?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerNo, Sir. The total number of refugees who have moved from the East Punjab to the West Punjab and vice versa is 8,500,000 or thereabouts. Large numbers of them have been resettled in towns, villages and farms in the new countries to which they have gone. The Governments have made a very great effort to deal with this matter, but I have no details.
§ Mr. HughesHas the right hon. Gentleman any information of the number of sick and injured and how they are being treated?