HC Deb 07 August 1900 vol 87 cc915-6
SIR J. FERGUSSON (Manchester, N.E.)

I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether the Militia battalions now encamped at Bulford have been in the last six months repeatedly moved, or have received orders to move, which have been at the last moment countermanded, thus entailing much trouble and expense to individuals; whether it is intended to move these battalions repeatedly in the next few months, and whether such frequent changes were and are unavoidable on public grounds; and if the Secretary of State will consider whether they are calculated to discourage recruiting and re-engagements.

*Mr. WYNDHAM

My information does not confirm the statement that there have been repeated moves, or that orders have been given and countermanded at the last moment; but a certain number of moves have been necessary in order that the ground might be cleared for building huts. I have explained to the House on former occasions that the deficiencies in our barrack accommodation, which we are spending a great deal of money to remedy, render such shiftings unavoidable.

Sir HOWARD VINCENT

Can the hon. Gentleman say how long the Militia are to be kept up?

*MR. WYNDHAM

There are several questions down as to that. I cannot give-the date of their disembodiment.