§ CAPTAIN H. M. JESSEL (St. Pancras, S.)I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War, whether, in view of the adverse reports of H.R.H. the Duke of Connaught after the New Forest Manœuvres, 1895, and of Lord Ralph Kerr after the Curragh Manœuvres, 1895, on the ankle boot at present in use in the Army, it is intended to provide a different boot for the troops; and, how long a time would elapse before a new pattern is issued?
MR. POWELL-WILLIAMSVarious experimental patterns of boots have, for several months past, been under practical trial; but until some pattern has stood a thorough and conclusive test it would be premature to adopt it for the troops. No undue delay will occur in the selection of a new pattern.