§ MR. LAMBERTI beg to ask the Secretary for War a Question of which I have given him private notice, viz., whether the mobile colums in South Africa are fully supplied with horses, and can place their full-mounted strength in the field; what reserves exist to supply the wastage, and what provision has been made for an adequate supply of sound 162 and acclimatised horses for the continuance of the war in South Africa.
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. BRODRICK, Surrey, Guildford)As I have already told the House, while the demand for horses from South Africa is for 10,000 a month, 16,000 were shipped in January, and for the most part are already landed. About 14,500 were shipped in February, and on their way to South Africa, while arrangements have already been made for about 13,500 to sail in March. The supply being, therefore, to the above extent in excess of the demand should be sufficient to meet all requirements and the necessary wastage.
§ CAPTAIN NORTON (Newington, W)Is the complement of horses at the front satisfactory and sufficient?
§ MR. BRODRICKI have every reason to think it is satisfactory. All the information I have received from Lord Kitchener points to that conclusion.
§ MR. LAMBERTShall we be able to discuss this matter on the Estimates tomorrow?
§ MR. BRODRICKThat is a Question for the Chairman of Committees and not for me.