asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if it has been decided to withdraw the Central Indian Horse from Shiraz; and, if so, will he explain why this regiment was sent to Shiraz, and if its withdrawal means that there are now adequate guarantees against the recurrence of disorder in Southern Persia?

As was explained in the Debate yesterday, the answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative; and as regards the second part, the regiment was sent to Shiraz solely for the protection of His Majesty's Consulate and of British life and property in the town. It is being withdrawn because His Majesty's Government do not consider its retention any longer necessary for that purpose.

Has any information reached the Foreign Office during the last few days that two large robberies have been committed on the roads around Shiraz?

I do not know what information has been received in regard to that, but I do not think that anything we know will alter our intention that it is perfectly safe to withdraw this regiment, which will in all probability reach the coast in safety.

Is there more than one squadron?

I thing there are two squadrons at Shiraz.

May we now assume that the trade routes in Southern Persia are safe?

Perhaps the hon. and gallant Gentleman will be good enough to refer to the Debate which took place yesterday.