HC Deb 09 May 1901 vol 93 c1142
MR. CHARLES HOBHOUSE (Bristol, E.)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he can state what is the establishment of the Royal Garrison Battalion to be stationed in Malta, and what is its actual strength; how many of the men are married, how many children have they, and how many married quarters are available; and what provision will be made, and where, for the families who cannot be quartered in barracks.

LORD STANLEY

The establishment is 1,012 of all ranks, and the present strength 827. The exact figures of the numbers of wives and children are not to hand. There are thirty-nine married quarters now available, and thirty more will be available in July. Further arrangements are being made. Those families which cannot be accommodated in quarters will remain in England and be granted separation allowance.

MR. CHARLES HOBHOUSE

Will the noble Lord make inquiry as to the number of wives and children? This is a very important point.

LORD STANLEY

I am making inquiries, and am sorry not to be able to give the figures to-day.

MR. CHARLES HOBHOUSE

Can we have them in time for the debate on Monday?

LORD STANLEY

I cannot say.

CAPTAIN NORTON (Newington, W.)

Can the noble Lord state whether there is any difference as regards the percentage of married men allowed in this regiment as compared with the percentage in ordinary regiments of the Line?

LORD STANLEY

Yes, Sir, there is a difference, but I cannot give the actual figures. I think my right hon. friend made them in his statement on the Estimates.