32. Mr. Philips Priceasked the Secretary of State for War how many British officers there are in Jordan at the present time; and whether they are directly under the orders of the Jordan Government.
§ Mr. HeadIn addition to officers with British units, 12 British Army officers are at present serving with the Arab Legion. These 12 are under the orders of senior Jordanian officers but remain subject to the Army Act.
Mr. PriceIn view of the uncertain political conditions in Jordan, of which we have unfortunately had evidence in recent weeks, is it any longer desirable that these officers should continue in the service of the Jordan Government?
§ Mr. HeadYes, Sir. These men are in an advisory and training capacity and, although it is not entirely my sphere of responsibility, I am sure that from the military point of view their presence is justified.