HC Deb 12 December 1945 vol 417 cc575-6W
Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware of the dissatisfaction among African troops stationed away from home; and whether he has had, or will have, consultations both with the respective Governors and the Secretary of State for War, with a view to expediting the. return of these men and ensuring that those not yet able to return and their families are fully in formed of the reasons for the delay.

Mr. George Hall

Yes, Sir, I am aware that there has been some dissatisfaction in certain of the West African units serving overseas. With regard to the second part of the Question, I am fully aware of the importance of repatriating all African troops as soon as possible. Repatriation has already begun and details of the programme were given by the Secretary of State for War in his replies to the hon. Members for South Cardiff (Mr. Callaghan) and Aston (Major Wyatt) on the 27th November. Steps have already been taken to let the troops concerned and the general public in Africa know why it has not been possible to repatriate all African troops immediately, but I am drawing the attention of the Governors concerned to the matter in case there is anything further that they can do.