HC Deb 18 March 1919 vol 113 cc1929-30W
Mr. KILEY

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the 62,000 German soldiers engaged on labour work in this country can be transferred to France, in order to effect the demobilisation of the 61,000 British soldiers serving in labour companies, many of whom have been transferred to labour units on account of wounds received in action?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I would refer my hon. Friend to the written answer given yesterday to a question by the hon. Member for Govan, to the effect that the policy of His Majesty's Government is that these men, except when required for agriculture, shall be transferred to France as soon as arrangements can be made. Ten thousand are shortly leaving for France, and the transfer of the remainder is under consideration. I am having a conference to-morrow on this subject with Sir Douglas Haig and other authorities concerned.