§ MR. TOTTENHAMasked the Secretary of State for War, If his attention has been called to the Confidental Reports of Officers commanding Militia Battalions and Brigades, with reference to the large and increasing deficiency of Militia Officers, called for by the Adjutant General in August last; whether this deficiency now amounts to upwards of 700; and, what steps it is proposed to take to remedy this state of things?
THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTONsaid, the confidential Reports referred to were now under consideration. The deficiency amongst Militia officers at the present time amounted to 857, including 1843 70 vacancies which had been lately caused by appointments to the Line. He thought it would be better not to give a digest of the Reports until some decision had been come to as to the steps to be taken in the matter.