§ MR. J. H. C. HOZIER (Lanark, S.)I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether it is the case that the standard of height for the Royal Scots Greys has been reduced by two inches; and, if so, for what cavalry regiments recruits between 5 feet 9 inches and 5 feet 11 inches in height can now be enlisted?
§ THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. BRODRICK,) Surrey, GuildfordThere is a difficulty in mounting heavy men abroad, while, on the other hand, tall recruits are required for the Foot Guards and for artillery gunners. Therefore, during the last few years the standard for Line cavalry regiments has been gradually reduced, and recruits are not taken above 5 ft. 9 in. in height. When the Scots Greys and the Royals were recently brought on the foreign service roster, their standard was reduced accordingly. As men are not taken for the Household Cavalry under 5 ft. 11 in. there is no cavalry opening for men between that height and 5 ft. 9 in.
§ MR. HOZIERI beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether a recruit who has enlisted, or may enlist, specially for the Royal Scots Greys will, under the new scheme, be liable, during the term of his service, to be transferred against his wish to any other dragoon regiment?
§ MR. BRODRICKRecruits have been enlisted since 1893 for the Corps of Dragoons, and are liable to be called upon to serve in any regiment of that corps. A man who enlisted previously for the Scots Greys cannot be transferred against his wish.