Lieut. - Commander KEN WORTHYasked the Secretary of State for India the number of executions for political offences that have taken place in Mesopotamia since the armistice with Turkey, including executions for alleged rebellion and sedition; how many persons are at present in prison for political offences; and what is the estimate of the casualties suffered by the native population in fighting against our troops since the armistice with Turkey?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe only executions of which I am aware in Mesopotamia since the armistice other than those1200W carried out in the ordinary course of justice, resulted from proceedings in a military court which was established in August last to try offences against public order. Under the order of this court 18 persons in all have been executed for such offences as murdering political officers and firing on sentries and Arab police while in the execution of their duty. With regard to the second part of the question, I am addressing an inquiry to the High Commissioner. The last part of the question should be addressed to the Secretary of State for War.