Last British Troops Leave India The withdrawal of British power from India was completed recently when the last serving battalion - the 1st Battalion and Somerset Light Infantry - held their last parade before embarking on the "Empress of Australia" for their last voyage home. The Colours in a launch which carried them to the Empress of Australia. In right foreground is Major General L.G. Whistler, General Officer Commanding British Troops in India, who sailed with the force. Behind him are an oil painting, the Indian Union Colours, and a silver replica of the Gateway of India, presents to the unit from the Indian Army 4th March 1948