HC Deb 22 July 1898 vol 62 c832
COLONEL WYNDHAM MURRAY

I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War in what manner the supplies for the troops to be engaged in the manœuvres in the south-west of England will be provided; and whether they will be obtained by the commissariat department itself in the county in which the troops will be operating, or whether provided by contractors who will forward the supplies from other parts?

MR. BRODRICK

The supplies will be drawn from contractors, who, if prices are equal, will doubtless purchase them as near as possible to the scene of operations.

MAJOR RASCH

May I ask the right honourable Gentleman whether such an arrangement is calculated to afford the experience which it is the intention of these manœuvres to give?

MR. BRODRICK

On this occasion it was absolutely necessary that the troops should be provided for by contract.