§ Brigadier-General SURTEESasked the Secretary of State for War how long the 2nd battalion Northumberland Fusiliers have been at Mosul; whether it has been under canvas since its arrival there; and whether, seeing that it has recently received an intimation that it is to remain for another year at Mosul, where the climatic conditions are very trying to young soliders, arrangements can be made for alleviating the conditions by providing permanent shelter as well as amusements for the troops, neither of which exist at present?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe 2nd Battalion, Northumberland Fusiliers, arrived at Mosul in November, 1919. The accommodation available for the troops in Mesopotamia depends largely upon the military situation, and it may be found necessary to accommodate the Battalion under canvas. As regards amusements and recreation for the troops, I am sure the local military authorities are doing all that is possible in the prevailing circumstances. I might add that the Battalion is under orders to leave Mesopotamia as soon as the situation permits.