HC Deb 17 June 1902 vol 109 cc835-6
CAPTAIN NORTON (Newington, W.)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the men of the 3rd and 4th Battalions of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers are anxious to be permitted to assist in lining the streets of London during the Coronation festivities; and whether, in view of the fact that these battalions supplied many men to the 1st Battalion which so greatly distinguished itself at the battles of Peter's Hill and Colenso, and that some of these men have returned to the battalions in question, he will consider the advisability of meeting their wishes.

MR. BRODRICK

Militia battalions who wish to be present at the Coronation ceremonies will be represented at the average of 150 per battalion. It is not possible to treat these two battalions differently to the others. I must remind the hon. Member that the space available for the Militia is necessarily limited.

CAPTAIN NORTON

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think these battalions have priority of claim because they are Irish regiments?

MR. BRODRICK

I do not.

MR. JOYCE (Limerick)

Except in South Africa.