§ Lieut.-Colonel JAMESasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how many of the European police officers in Egypt of the rank of bimbashi and upwards have announced their intention of retiring from the Egyptian service at the earliest possible opportunity; and whether he is aware that these officials and many others are doing so because they consider that the position is insecure?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINOf 23 European police officers of the rank indicated 21 have opted to retire by or before the middle of July next. In fact, however, only three of the officers will leave the police service this year, as the remainder are willing to accept contracts offered them by the Egyptian Government. I have no detailed information as to the motives which underlay the decisions of these officers, who were no doubt influenced by personal and individual considerations.