§ 45. Brigadier Raynerasked the Minister of Defence if he will consider the raising of an army of Africans in order to strengthen the Empire's strategic reserve and fill the place left vacant by the Indian Army.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. William Whiteley)I have been asked to reply. I apologise for the absence of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Defence, who has been delayed. The hon. and gallant Member is aware of the existence of local forces in East Africa and West Africa. Their future size and composition are under constant review. On grounds of population alone, no comparison can be drawn with India.
§ Brigadier RaynerIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there exists a pool of 16 million East Africans, of whom 200,000 received some military training in the last war? Is he also aware that Major-General Dimoline, who has just returned from being General Officer Commanding East African Command, has given as his opinion that a first-class force could be provided out of those men if they had good British officers to lead them?
§ Mr. WhiteleyAs I pointed out, this matter is under review, but of course there cannot be any comparison between the manpower of India and that of East Africa.
§ Viscount HinchingbrookeWill the right hon. Gentleman represent to his right hon. Friend that a statement on this vitally important matter should be made very soon?
§ Mr. GammansIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it was two years ago when the Secretary of State for War told this House that an early decision would be made on the question of recruiting a Colonial Army? Surely we ought not to have to wait such a long time?