Mr. DOYLEasked the Secretary of State for War if he has recently received any reports from the British headquarters in Northern Russia emphasising the serious hardship to our troops if the evacuation is not accelerated; if it is possible to so expedite matters that the British Army will be able to leave the country before the end of September; and what steps are now being taken for the safety of and the providing of food and fuel for the inhabitants who have stood loyally by us?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. With regard to the manner in which the evacuation is to be carried out I have nothing to add to the statement made on the 29th July. With regard to the last part of the question, adequate steps are being taken to ensure the safety, after our withdrawal, of those classes whom we are
under an obligation to protect. As regards food, the present needs of the population have been provided for and the best possible arrangements will be made for the future in conjunction with our Allies. The nature of these arrangements depend on the developments of the situation and General Rawlinson's recommendations.