HC Deb 19 March 1889 vol 334 cc127-8
MR. CALEB WRIGHT (Lancashire, S. W)

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to a circular letter recently issued by the head master of Mayall College, Dulwich Road, Brixton, to the parents of boys under his charge in which he says— For the purpose of more thoroughly attending to the physical training of the pupils under my charge, I have received the permission of the Government to form a Cadet Corps in connection with a regiment; carbines have been, issued by permission of the Secretary of State for War, and a course of drill has been prescribed that will especially benefit growing boys and improve their physique and deportment, besides being conducive to habits of obedience and orderliness. Tunics and belts will be provided and kept at the headquarters; I have been gazetted Captain by the War Office, and take entire charge and responsibility. Will he inform the House whether the Government have supplied the carbines; and, if so, from what fund; and, whether any other schools are under the same conditions?

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

Yes, Sir. Unserviceable carbines, which have been rendered incapable of being fired, have been supplied, on payment, for drill purposes. In answer to the second question, all duly constituted cadet corps and many schools have been so supplied.