HC Deb 22 February 1900 vol 79 c785
MR. DONAL SULLIVAN () Westmeath, S.

I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War how many men of the 3rd Leinster Militia Regiment, at present stationed at Woolwich, have volunteered for foreign service, and how many have declined.

* MR. WYNDHAM

All except two of those at Woolwich volunteered.

MR. WILLIAM REDMOND () Clare, E.

Was any disability or punishment put upon the men who refused to volunteer?

MR. WILLIAM JOHNSTON () Belfast, S.

I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether, so far back as 2nd November, 1899, the 5th battalion of Royal Irish Rifles (the South Down Militia) volunteered for garrison duty, or such other duty as they might be called upon to perform. And whether their services have been or will be accepted. In putting this question may I express the hope that the House will wish many happy returns of his birthday to Colonel Baden-Powell at Mafeking.

* MR. WYNDHAM

Yes, Sir. The battalion has offered its services, but, as in the case of other corps, it has not yet been embodied owing to want of barrack room.