HC Deb 16 April 1883 vol 278 cc304-5
SIR HENRY FLETCHER

asked the Secretary of State for War, Whether, in consequence of the contemplated change in the undress uniform of the Infantry of the Line, viz. from red to grey, it is intended to carry out the instructions for officers to provide themselves with the badges, forage caps, &c. of the new Territorial Regiments to which they now belong; and, whether any allowance will be made to officers, towards providing these new uniforms, after having already been put to a considerable expense during the last few years by frequent changes of uniform?

THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTON

Sir, the badges and forage caps of officers will not be affected by the proposed change of uniform; and, therefore, there is no reason for modifying the instructions which have been given. The new undress uniform would be in substitution for the present uniform; and as officers would be allowed time to wear out their present uniforms, the change need not involve any expense to them. The new dress would probably cost less than that now worn, and officers would not have, as at present, to incur the charge for a new outfit when proceeding on active service.

MR. ONSLOW

said, he wished to know whether it had been decided to change the colour of the uniform from red to grey?

SIR WALTER B. BARTTELOT

asked whether, if any change in the colour of the uniform was made, the noble Marquess would give the House an opportunity of discussing this very serious question? A fit and appropriate opportunity of doing so would arise when the Clothing Vote for the Army was brought forward. Pending the discussion, he trusted the noble Marquess would not give instructions to carry out the alteration.

THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTON

In reply to the Question of the hon. Member for Guildford (Mr. Onslow), I have to say that I stated, in moving the Army Estimates, that no steps would be taken to carry out the change of uniform, but that there would be an experimental trial as to the change of colour recommended by the Committee. In answer to the hon. and gallant Baronet opposite (Sir Walter B. Barttelot), I admit it is desirable that the House should have an opportunity of discussing the subject, and I think a convenient opportunity will arise when the Clothing Estimate is proposed. No step can possibly be taken before that Vote is agreed to to prevent the House from coming to a conclusion on the matter.