HC Deb 03 March 1903 vol 118 cc1226-7
MR. WINSTON CHURCHILL (Oldham)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he will grant the Return standing on today's Notice Paper respecting the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Army Corps.

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. BRODRICK,) Surrey, Guildford

My hon. friend asks for a Return on a date which happens to be during the Indian trooping season when regiments and drafts are on passage to and from India, and which would not therefore give an accurate return of the strength of the Army. In addition the moves consequent on the close of the South African war will not be completed till about the middle of April, which would be the earliest date on which a Return could be made which would be of any value. I will order a Return to be prepared accordingly.

MR. WINSTON CHURCHILL

On the 15th April?

MR. BRODRICK

I cannot say precisely, but some time between the 15th April and the 1st May.