§ MR. MATTHEW RIDLEY (Stalybridge)To ask the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that men belonging to Volunteer regiments volunteered for active service in South Africa on the distinct understanding, given in Army Order 29 of 1902, Paragraph 12, that they would receive a gratuity of £5; and whether he will reconsider his decision that Army Order 87 of 1901, to which no reference was made in the Order under which the men enlisted, deprives them of the right to this gratuity; and whether he has any information as to the effect this decision has had on recruiting for the Volunteer forces.
(Answered by Mr. Secretary Brodrick.) All the men who volunteered for service under Army Order 29 of 1902 were granted the war gratuity, except those who had already completed a period of service in South Africa and received a gratuity. The condition of this grant was that it should not be given twice to any individual. It is not apparent how this decision could have any effect on recruiting for the Volunteer forces; but if my hon. friend can show that there has been any breach of faith I will consider the question.