HC Deb 09 November 1882 vol 274 cc1106-7
SIR HENRY FLETCHER

asked the Secretary of State for War, If his attention has been called to the following statement, which appeared in the morning newspapers of November 7th, dated Aldershot, That on the arrival of the 84th Regiment from Egypt this evening, amid a great downfall of rain, not a bed, or any food or fire, had been provided for them in any shape or form, and 1,000 men, wet and cold, marched into empty barracks, utterly destitute of the smallest comfort; and whether the statement is well founded?

MR. CHILDERS

This is a matter within the responsibility of the commanding officer of the battalion, under Section 15 of the Queen's Regulations. I have made inquiries, and I find that in this instance the barracks were ready for the reception of the men, and that tea and bread were issued to them on their arrival, and beer and cheese later. Four blankets per man were also provided. The Regulations appear to have been properly observed by all concerned, and are, no doubt, sufficient for ordinary cases of home reliefs; but I am not satisfied that they make sufficient provision for cases like the present, of a battalion being moved into barracks at once on landing from foreign service, without giving time for sending on an advance party to take over the barracks, and arrange for the reception of the battalion; and I have given orders to have these old Regulations reconsidered.

SIR HENRY FLETCHER

May I ask whether there was firing, and wood and coal provided for them?

MR. CHILDERS

I stated that I thought the Regulations on the subject of fire had been observed; but I do not think they are adequate Regulations, and I shall take care to have them revised on that point especially.