§ LORD ADDISONMy Lords, I beg to ask His Majesty's Government a question of which I have given private notice—namely, whether they have any statement to make as to the welfare of British troops in the India Command.
§ THE PARLIAMENTARY UNDERSECRETARY OF STATE FOR INDIA AND BURMA (The EARL OF MUNSTER)My Lords, I am obliged to my noble friend. The Government of India have been and are making great efforts to improve and expand welfare arrangements for British troops in India. There is no doubt that a great deal more can be done if further supplies, equipment and personnel can be provided from outside India. Recent improvements in our general situation are now making this possible. My right honourable friend the Secretary of State for India is anxious to be assured that everything possible will be done and that further assistance which is now becoming available is applied to the most urgent need. He has accordingly asked me to proceed to India to examine conditions on the spot, to consult with the Government of India and report to him personally. My visit will be of short duration and confined to the purpose I have described.