HC Deb 17 March 1892 vol 2 c1045
CAPTAIN GRICE-HUTCHINSON (Aston Manor)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War why the 3rd and 4th Battalions of the Lancashire Fusiliers, whose headquarters are at Bury, are ordered to assemble for their annual training at Chipping; whether he is aware that is regarded as a most out-of-the-way and inconvenient place for the purpose by both officers and men; and whether, in the interests of the regiment, and considering the fact that these battalions furnish annually a large number of recruits for the Line, he can alter the programme, and allow the regiment to train at Altcar, as recommended by the officers commanding both battalions of the regiment?

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

The ground at Altcar is not well adapted for military training; but, on the other hand, a large tract has been leased at Chipping for the purpose of brigading together the Militia and Regular troops of the district, and it is anticipated that a great improvement in the training will be the consequence.

CAPTAIN GRICE-HUTCHINSON

But would it not be more convenient to hold the training nearer headquarters?

MR. E. STANHOPE

A more convenient place could not be found for the purpose of brigading together the Militia and Regular troops of the district. As I am informed, the objection to Altcar is that physical difficulties, such as rabbit warrens, &c, spoil the manœuvring ground.