HC Deb 19 April 1888 vol 324 cc1740-1
MR. TOMLINSON (Preston)

asked the Secretary of State for War, On what principle the reduction of 25 per cent in the Vote for Volunteer Regimental Camps has been made; whether the reduction is intended to be permanent; and, whether the Inspectors will be instructed to make allowance in their Reports for the diminished efficiency likely to result from the restriction?

THE SECRETARY OF STATE (Mr. E. STANHOPE) (Lincolnshire, Horncastle)

The money taken for Volunteer camps has not been reduced; but a larger proportion has been allowed for encampment with the Regular Forces, which is considered to afford the better military instruction. The number of applicants for the grant has, however, increased so largely that only some 75 per cent can be permitted to have it. The limit of the grant has not yet been decided; but, having in view the increase in the cost of the Volunteers, amounting to over £65,000 in the Estimates of the current year, it will be necessary to restrict in some degree the numbers who can have the advantage of this special training. It is not proposed to issue any such instruction to Inspectors as that suggested. The several corps can encamp in their turn; but there are many corps which never express the desire to do so.

MR. TOMLINSON

asked, whether the right hon. Gentleman meant that there was a probability that all applicants would be allowed to take into camp the full number of men who wished to go?

MR. E. STANHOPE

No, Sir; I did not say that. There must be a reduction; but the War Office have not fully considered what is to be the extent of the reduction.

MR. TOMLINSON

asked, whether it was not the opinion of the Military Authorities that the increased efficiency of the Volunteers gained by their going into camp did not more than compensate for the increased amount of the grant?

MR. E. STANHOPE

I attach enormous importance to the instruction of Volunteers in camp; but we think there is more advantage derived from instruction in camp if it takes place where Regular soldiers are being trained.