HC Deb 05 June 1919 vol 116 c2244W
Mr. A. SHORT

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will state the number of men who have been brought home from India for demobilisation; and whether he will state the steps being taken to secure the return of all men in India eligible for demobilisation?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The latest Returns received show that up to the 9th April, 23,712 all ranks have been brought home since the 11th November, 1918, but this includes invalids as well as men for demobilisation. No figures are available showing how many of these are for demobilisation only. With regard to the second part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the statement I made in the House on the 25th February dealing with the question of troops in India. Demobilisation is temporarily suspended owing to the trouble on the Indian Frontier, and as I explained in the House last Thursday I cannot deal with the question of the relief of troops in India until the autumn.