HC Deb 09 December 1943 vol 395 cc1160-1W
Mr. J. Dugdale

asked the Secretary of State for India whether soldiers serving in the Indian Army will be included in the scheme to bring home all who have been serving more than five years overseas?

Mr. Amery

If the hon. Member is referring to British soldiers serving in British Army units of the Army in India the answer is in the affirmative; if, however, he refers to British soldiers who have elected permanent service with the Indian Army the answer is in the negative. Such soldiers having voluntarily severed their connection with the British Army can no longer be transferred to the Home Establishment. Applications for compassionate leave to the United Kingdom are, however, given consideration. The position of British soldiers temporarily posted for service with Indian units is under consideration with the Government of India.