HC Deb 31 July 1946 vol 426 cc216-7W
143. Mr. Chamberlain

asked the Undersecretary of State for Dominion Affairs what progress has been made in the new recruitment scheme in Bechuanaland and Basutoland; where these troops will be trained; what will be the approximate length of their foreign service; and whether he is satisfied that adequate welfare arrangements have been made.

Mr. Bottomley

Arrangements have only recently been completed for the recruitment of this force for pioneer and garrison duties in the Middle East. It is not possible to say yet how many men will be obtained. They will receive a short preliminary training in South Africa, to be followed by a further period in the Middle East. The period of the contract is 30 months from the date of enlistment, or for a shorter period if a man's service is no longer required. Careful consideration has been given to the question of the welfare organisation and there is no reason to suppose that arrangements will be other than satisfactory.