65. Sir C. Moth-Radclyffeasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what estimate was made of the strength of the Egyptian forces in the Yemen at the time of the arrival of the United Nations observers; and what is the estimated strength of the Egyptian forces there today.
§ Mr. P. ThomasI am not aware of any estimate by the United Nations observers of Egyptian strength in the Yemen at the time of their arrival last year. Figures issued by the United Nations suggested a total of 30,000 or more at the beginning of last month, including reinforcements since January. We believe that the increase in numbers has continued, and unofficial estimates published recently speak of 35,000 to 40,000 men.