HC Deb 13 September 1886 vol 309 c165
MAJOR GENERAL GOLDSWORTHY (Hammersmith)

asked the Secretary of State for War, Whether the First Army Corps is complete in every particular, and ready for service; if not, whether he will will arrange for its being placed on a proper footing?

THE SECRETARY OF STATE (Mr. W. H. SMITH) (Strand, Westminster)

During my short term of Office last year I gave my serious attention to the condition of our two First Army Corps, and I have now before me the Reports of the Departmental Committees which I then appointed to examine into the subject. The Intelligence Department is now engaged in collating these Reports, and in pointing out the deficiencies which exist. I think that with my present knowledge it would be inexpedient to make any definite statement in reply to the hon. and gallant Member's Question.