§ MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER (Belfast, W.)I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether the 3rd Regiment (the Buffs) have been allowed by the War Office to resume their distinctive facings and their ancient badge, of which they were deprived some years ago; why this indulgence has been granted to the Buffs; what is likely to be the cost to the nation involved by the restoration of the facings and the badge: and whether the War Office will accord a similar indulgence to other regiments which have been deprived of their title, facings, and distinctions, in cases where the regiments themselves desire the change?
§ MR. WYNDHAMThis regiment has always worn buff facings; between 1881 1109 and 1894 white facings were supplied, but the regiment was permitted to colour them buff. Since 1894 buff facings have been supplied. The badge of the Dragon has always been worn on the cap, and, since 1894, has been placed on the collar in lieu of the Kentish Horse. These changes involved but little expense. I propose to deal with the fourth Question put by the honourable Member on the introduction of the Army Estimates.
§ MR. ARNOLD-FORSTERMay I ask whether every regiment will be allowed to alter their facings as the Buffs have done?
§ MR. WYNDHAMThe honourable Member will see that this is a very large question, involving policy as well as finance. I shall be glad if he will allow me to reserve my reply until the Estimates.