asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can state the number of troops in the Constantinople area on 1st April and on 23rd June respectively; and how many troops were in course of transport to that area on the latter date?

No, Sir; I do not think it desirable to disclose the exact strength of British forces in this theatre of actual military operations.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can state the number of troops in Mesopotamia and North-West Persia respectively on 1st April and 23rd June?

I do not see the same objection to giving information in regard to Mesopotamia. Although there is fighting going on there, it is of a sporadic character, and I do not think any harm would be done by giving the numbers asked for.

Lieut.-Colonel J. WARD:

Why? I would ask the right hon. Gentleman to consider whether, knowing that there are actual operations pending in this area, it is advisable to give the enemy the assistance that is suggested.

Who is the best judge of that?

HON. MEMBERS:

Not you!

I think the right course for the Minister responsible to take is to give all possible information to the House without saying, in fact, how many men are in particular garrisons. I do not think it does any harm to show what is the general position of our forces in Mesopotamia.

In spite of the wishes of the whole House?

As a matter of fact the figures have been laid before Parliament in printed documents, and there has been very little change, as will be seen when I read them out.

The figures for the Royal Air Force are:—

May I ask if that number includes followers?

No.