§ MR. R. W. HANBURYI beg to ask the Secretary of State for India, what is the estimated amount in rupees of the charge laid upon the Indian Exchequer during the coming financial year for the training of troops in this country, in addition to the cost of the whole of the troops in India itself, and all the charges connected with their passage to and from India; and whether it is intended to reduce this amount, which last year was nearly £600,000.
§ MR. H. H. FOWLERThe capitation rate payable to the War Office for recruiting, depot and other charges in respect of the British Forces serving in India, was fixed by Lord Northbrook's Commission in 1892 at £7. 10s. per head. By agreement between the India Office and the Treasury that rate has been continued, and I expect will be maintained during the coming financial year, and the amount would be £548,250. The question whether the capitation rate should be increased or reduced is one of the matters to be considered in the forthcoming inquiry.
§ MR. E. W. HANBURYHas an arbitrator been appointed?
§ MR. H. H. FOWLERNo, the Government have agreed to appoint a Royal Commission.