§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYasked the Secretary of State for War how many British troops are now in Italy; and for what purpose they are still in that country?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe present ration strength of troops in Italy is 3,250, including sick in hospital. These troops are required, partly for the guarding of Austrian prisoners, who number about 2,300, and partly for the custody, storage and handling of surplus Army stores which have been handed over to the Disposal Board, and are awaiting disposal. The prisoners will shortly be repatriated, and the Ministry of Munitions, I understand, anticipate that the disposal of the surplus stores will be effected in some six weeks' time or less.