§ SIR J. COLOMB (Great Yarmouth)I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether the War Office authorities are aware that the Naval Commander-in-Chief at Devonport has published an official Memorandum stating that in consequence of the absence of troops from the garrisons the customary military divisional parade to celebrate Her Majesty's birthday will not take place this year, and notifies arrangements for holding instead a military parade, under his command, of the blue-jackets and marines by brigades for that purpose, and whether the statement is correct; and, if so, where is the general officer commanding the troops in that district, and what has become of the garrisons?
§ MR. BRODRICKThe Infantry garrison at Devonport has been reduced by two battalions owing to the reconstruction of the drainage at Raglan Barracks. The customary military divisional parade to celebrate Her Majesty's birthday will accordingly not take place. The general officer commanding the troops in the district is at Devonport.
§ SIR J. COLOMBMay I ask the right honourable Gentleman whether, in view of the paucity of troops in this garrison, it is in contemplation to reduce the general staff, which now costs £9,000 a year, and consists of—
§ MR. SPEAKEROrder, order! Notice must be given of that.