HC Deb 24 May 1921 vol 142 cc19-20
61. Mr. NEWBOULD

asked the Prime Minister whether he can state when the Defence Force will be disbanded and the Reserves be demobilised?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply. The Defence Force will be disbanded and the Reservists will be demobilised with all possible speed as soon as the situation admits.

Mr. HOGGE

What necessity exists at the moment for the use of either of these forces?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

The hon. Member knows quite well that these forces are in existence in order to render protection and assistance to the civil power.

HON. MEMBERS

Where?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON - EVANS

Wherever they are required.

Mr. HOGGE

Can the right hon. Baronet inform the House of one place where they are required for protection now?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

They have been required, I regret to say, in several places during the last week or two.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Could not they be used to take over mines and collieries under Regulation 13?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

That is not the object for which they were raised.

Mr. SPEAKER

That does not arise out of the question.

69. Mr. LYLE-SAMUEL

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he can state the total cost to date of the mobilisaion of the Reserves and of the Defence Force?

Sir R. HORNE

The estimated total cost to date of these services is £4,880,000.