§ VISCOUNT GALWAYasked the Secretary of State for War, Whether he will not re-consider the question of granting allowances to Yeomanry trumpeters; whether it is intended that the cost of such an important part of a Yeomanry Regiment as the Band is to be thrown entirely upon the officers, without any assistance as formerly from the Contingent Allowance; and from what funds or by whom the expenses of Serjeants ordered by Government to the School at Aldershot are to be paid?
MR. GATHORNE HARDYParagraph 2, Clause 28, of the Auxiliary and Reserve Force Circular, 1876, sanctions the issue of 3s a-day during permanent duty for one qualified Yeoman to act as trumpeter. The question whether an additional number of such trumpeters should be allowed is now under consideration, but I can give no pledge as to the ultimate decision. It is not intended to allow any charge against the Contingent Fund for band expenses. This rule is in accordance with the practice adhered to by the War Office in reference to bands for the other branches of the Auxiliary Forces. The Serjeants of Yeomanry sent to the Aldershot School are treated in every respect like other non-commissioned officers detailed for such service—that is, they receive travelling expenses, quarters, and rations at contract prices. Routes are in all cases issued for them, and vouchers can be obtained for expenses if applied for by the officer commanding.