§ Mr. JODRELLasked the Secretary of State for War whether a strong British force is to be retained in the Archangel and Murmansk district of Russia for the ensuing winter at the disposal of Mr. Tschaykovski; and whether the new British volunteer troops recently sent there were previously informed that they would be brought back from Russia by the end of October next?
§ Mr. FORSTERIt is not the intention to maintain a strong force in North Russia during the ensuing winter. The volunteer forces which recently went to North Russia were told that they would be brought back before the winter. No man will be kept there against his will.
§ Mr. JODRELLasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that the White Sea is generally frozen over in the month of September, and that the Rivers Dwina and Vage usually begin to be ice-bound during the month of August, the British troops to be stationed there have been provided with suitable winter clothing and equipment; and, if not, what provision has been made to send out the same without delay in case of an early winter setting in?
§ Mr. FORSTERThis matter is receiving the closest attention. Large quantities of special warm clothing are in possession of the forces both at Archangel and at Murmansk, and any additional quantities required will be sent out an ample time to meet the necessity.