§ 47. Major Tufton Beamishasked the Minister of Defence what is the strength of the British Military Mission in Burma, showing different ranks separately; how this compares with the maximum strength during the last four years; and whether he is satisfied that the mission is fully able to discharge its important functions and that the Burma Government is reaping the maximum possible benefit from the presence of this mission in Burma.
§ Mr. ShinwellThe strength of the British Services Mission in Burma in May, 1950, was 49 officers, 46 n.c.o.s and 16 other ranks. The strength of the mission was at its maximum in June, 1948, when there were 117 officers, 67 n.c.o.s and 14 other ranks. With regard to the last part of the Question, I am satisfied that the mission has done and is doing useful work despite the difficult conditions which have recently prevailed in that country.
§ Major BeamishCan the Minister say whether the provision of military equipment comes within the province of this Service Mission?
§ Mr. ShinwellI cannot say, off-hand.