HC Deb 03 February 1948 vol 446 cc1629-30
42. Vice-Admiral Taylor

asked the Sectary of State for War how many British officers have been killed, wounded, mur- dered and missing in India and Pakistan since 15th August, 1947; and whether any of these British officers were non-volunteers to serve after 15,th August, 1947.

Mr. Shinwell

Seven British Service officers have been killed, of whom two were murdered, in India and Pakistan since 15th August; none have been wounded or are missing. The two who were murdered were volunteers for service in India. Of the other five killed, one, who was killed in a flying accident, was not a volunteer for service under the Dominion of India; information as to whether the remaining four were volunteers is not available in the War Office.

43. Vice-Admiral Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for War under what authority British officers, non-volunteers, were bound to serve with Indian troops after 15th August, 1947.

Mr. Shinwell

It was not possible to withdraw simultaneously on 15th August all British Service officers serving with Indian troops, nor was there enough time to ascertain the wishes of every officer by that date. In consequence, some officers who were not volunteers were employed with Indian troops after 15th August for a short period until passages could be provided for them. No special authority was necessary for such employment.