HC Deb 22 December 1919 vol 123 c1043W
Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for War how many British soldiers are now in Mesopotamia and Persia who are not volunteers for the post-war Army; at what rate approximately these soldiers are being -relieved and sent home; and when he expects the last of these men to have left for England?

Mr. CHURCHILL

There are 10,059 soldiers in Mesopotamia and Persia who have not volunteered for the after-war Army. With regard to the latter part of the question, arrangements have been made for about 3,600 to be sent home daring December and for a further 3,000 during January. It is hoped that all personnel eligible for demobilisation will have left by the end of February next. In view, however, of the present situation in Mesopotamia, it may become necessary for these arrangements to be suspended for a time.