HC Deb 20 May 1901 vol 94 cc582-3
SIR CHARLES CAYZER (Barrow-in-Furness)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether, in recognition of the services rendered by the colonial forces in South Africa to the mother country, he will name some of the regiments on the permanent establishment of the British Army after the colonies who have sent forces to South Africa, for example the Imperial Canadian Regiment and other similar titles; and, if so, will he endeavour to arrange with the Colonial Governments to afford facilities in the respective colonies for men who may desire to do so to engage for service in the regiments so named.

LORD STANLEY

The regiments of the British Army have already a territorial connection and bear corresponding titles. It would hardly appear expedient to break this connection. Facilities for such Imperial service will, it is hoped, be created for the colonies in connection with the Imperial Yeomanry.

COLONEL LEGGE (St. George's, Hanover Square)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider the advisability of inviting the colonies to raise Regular corps for service in the Imperial Army at home and abroad both in peace and war.

MR. BRODRICK

The proposal has been repeatedly considered, but has not hitherto been found practicable. I hope a beginning of such a connection may be made through the Imperial Yeomanry.

MR. WILLIAM REDMOND (Clare, E.)

And will the right hon. Gentleman also invite the colonies to pay towards the expense of the war?

MR. SPEAKER

Order, order!

MR. WILLIAM REDMOND

They would not do it.