HC Deb 03 May 1937 vol 323 cc804-5W
Mr. Pritt

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India how long the aeroplane bombardment has been carried on in parts of the North-West Frontier area since the 6th April; whether any delayed-action bombs have been used; what opportunities exist for the evacuation of noncombatants from the areas covered by the bombardment, and where they can find refuge; whether any steps were taken to secure the removal of non-combatants before the bombardment began; whether any and, if so, how many casualties have been caused by the bombardment to armed men and to non-combatants, respectively; whether any crops have been destroyed, and, if so, over what extent of land; whether any dams or reservoirs have been destroyed, and, if so, what area of cultivation is affected; whether any and, if so, how many persons will be deprived of their crops by these means in the coming season; and whether the Government will reconsider the policy of armed invasion and subjugation of tribes living beyond the administrative frontier?

Mr. Butler

Apart from the use of aircraft in co-operation with our land forces and the blockade by air of the Tori Khel tribe recently authorised as a means of economic pressure, air action has been taken from time to time since 6th April in a few localities in Waziristan, which have been proscribed, to keep them clear of hostile tribesmen. Ample opportunities are always given by the dropping of warning notices for the evacuation of areas under bombardment and areas of safety are notified. It is not known how many casualties have been caused to armed tribesmen, but so far as is known none has been caused to non-combatants, nor have any been caused by delayed action bombs. No dams or reservoirs have been destroyed, and any damage which may have occurred to crops is negligible.

As regards the last part of the question, the policy of the Government of India is to maintain the peace of the border and enter into good relations with the tribes with a view to their gradual civilisation and economic betterment. The present operations to restore peace and order have been necessitated by the activities of raiding gangs against the inhabitants of British India and frequent attacks on our forces and communications.