§ MR. LLEWELLYN (Somerset, N)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been directed to the fact that in some places where the population is less than 10,000, there exists more than one branch of the Volunteer Service; and whether, since such an arrangement may interfere with the efficiency of the several corps affected, he can provide a remedy?
§ *THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. E. STANHOPE,) Lincolnshire, HorncastleIn the early days of the Volunteer Force the raising of corps was sanctioned in particular localities mainly with reference to local wishes. Now, however, that mobilisation for home defence is the principal consideration, only those corps are allowed which suit the scheme of defence of the particular district. There are difficulties in changing a corps from one arm of the Service to another; and local prejudices have also to be fully allowed for. But I cordially sympathise with the suggestion of my hon. Friend, and shall be glad to consider in any particular case whether we cannot do something to meet the difficulty.