§ *MR. TOMKINSON (Cheshire, Crewe). I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether, in his new scheme of Army reform, he will include a provision to relieve squadron and company officers from the responsibility of their accounts, and revert to the old system of regimental paymasters.
LORD STANLEYThe old system of regimental paymasters in no way relieved officers commanding companies and squadrons from the responsibility of their accounts. There is no intention of 1353 reverting to the system of regimental paymasters. The question whether any alteration should be made to meet the difficulties connected with the payment of soldiers on active service is now receiving consideration.