HC Deb 18 February 1947 vol 433 c965
38. Mr. Longden

asked the Secretary of State for War the numbers of Dutch officers and men who were trained in Britain during 1946; how many are being trained at the present time; and how many of them have left this country for Indonesia since the signing of the truce in November last.

Mr. Bellenger

One thousand five hundred and twenty-five Dutch officers and 9,312 other ranks were trained in this country during 1946, and 28 officers and 201 other ranks are being trained here at present. No Dutch troops have been sent direct from this country to Indonesia during 1946 or 1947.

Mr. Mikardo

Could my right hon. Friend say why we are giving facilities for the training of Dutch troops for their war against the Indonesians, and how much it is costing the British taxpayer?

Mr. Bellenger

The answer is that it is not for that purpose at all. Some of these young men joined the British Army during the war and want to complete their training.