§ MR. LAMBERT (Devonshire, South Molton)I beg to ask the First Lord of the Treasury what steps are to be taken by the Government to remedy the defects in the military strength of the country as indicated by Lord Roberts.
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURI think the hon. Gentleman will feel that his Question must be put in rather more precise terms before I can answer it. Lord Roberts' speech consists of a series of propositions, and to answer in regard to each one of them what has been or can be done is impossible. If the hon. Gentleman will ask me a precise Question on a precise point I will do my best to answer him.
§ MR. PIRIE (Aberdeen, N.)Is the Government responsible for the views of lord Roberts?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURNo, Sir; the {government is in no sense responsible for the statements of Lord Roberts.
§ MR. PIRIEDoes the speech of Lord Roberts represent the views of the Defence Committee, of which he is a member?
§ MR. A. J. BALFOURA member of the Defence Committee may make a speech without committing the Defence Committee. Lord Roberts spoke on his personal responsibility.