HC Deb 29 April 1898 vol 56 c1546
MR. PIRIE

I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether, in the monthly issue of the distribution of troops does not give facilities for comparison of the actual number of men quartered in the different countries of the United Kingdom, he will state to the House the actual number of men of the regular Army quartered in Scotland, England, and Ireland, respectively, on 1st April, 1898?

MR. BRODRICK

In round numbers, 70,000 in England, 4,000 in Scotland, and 21,000 in Ireland.

MR. PIRIE

Seeing that the proportion of Scotland is so small, can the right honourable Gentleman promise to quarter an extra number in that country?

MR. BRODRICK

I have explained already that it is undesirable in the interests of our existing mobilisation and training arrangements to quarter more troops in the North.

MR. PIRIE

Could not the right honourable Gentleman endeavour to increase the facilities for military training in Scotland?

MR. BRODRICK

There are serious reasons why it is not desirable to establish fresh barracks in Scotland.

MR. PIRIE

May I ask—

MR. SPEAKER

Order, order! The Question has been fully answered, and if the honourable Member wishes to put further Questions he must give notice.

MR. PIRIE

I shall call attention to the subject on the Estimates.