HC Deb 01 June 1891 vol 353 cc1371-2
MR. FRASER - MACKINTOSH (Invernessshire)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether, as the erection of Volunteer drill-halls is an essential, while the cost is a heavy burden on the resources of battalions, he will introduce a Bill authorising the Public Works Loan Commissioners to grant loans over such halls on the same easy terms as are given for other public works; and whether, as the whole expenses of a Volunteer corps have to be advanced by the officers, while the Capitation Grant is not payable until six months after the close of the Volunteer year (October 31), he can see his way to relieve the officers by ordering a payment to account in June yearly, and the balance so soon as the returns have been checked?

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. E. STANHOPE,) Lincolnshire, Horncastle

Although drill-halls are not essential, they are a very great advantage to the corps, and there is a great deal to be said in favour of the suggestion of the hon. Member, and I will take it into further consideration with the Treasury. As regards the Capitation Grant, it has been already often explained that the original payment having been made in advance, there is no tangible grievance, unless in the case of corps raised after the original advance was made. Moreover, to change the system would now involve two payments in one year, and I am not prepared to recommend this large expenditure.