§ COLONEL A. LOCKWOOD (Essex, Epping)I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War, if he could state to the House how many men have been enlisted during the last twelve months who are under the prescribed limit as to 926 height and chest measurement; and, whether the above-mentioned measurements have in a great measure been modified in the last six months to suit existing circumstances?
§ MR. BRODRICKDuring the year 1895 the special enlistments under standard of recruits were 5,780, showing a large decrease as compared with previous years. The conditions under which such enlistments are allowed vary from time to time according to the exigencies of the Service. It is difficult to explain these variations within the limits of an answer to a question. May I refer my hon. Friend to sections 6 to 10 of the Annual Report of the Inspector-General of Recruiting which has just been laid on the Table. It gives full information upon the subject. It shows that the great majority of these specially-enlisted men attain the full standard within their first year of service.
§ COLONEL LOCKWOODasked if there was any limit at all placed to the number of recruits so enlisting.
§ MR. BRODRICKsaid no limit had hitherto been placed, but the number was kept within reasonable limits.