§ MR. CHARLES ALLEN (Gloucestershire, Stroud)On behalf of the hon. Member for East Edinburgh, I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War if he can state whether the reports of general officers commanding districts as to the efficiency of Volunteer units will be based on the standard of fitness for service abroad; whether the proposed reduction in numbers will be determined by fitness for service abroad; and if the information requested in Army Council Circular of July 11th, 1905, as to fitness for service abroad, is a compulsory demand, and is in accordance with the Volunteer Regulations.
§ MR. ARNOLD-FORSTERThe Answers to the first two Questions are in the negative. The circular letter is in the shape of an order and is worded in accordance with the custom in His Majesty's Army, and I have every confidence that commanding officers of 1175 Volunteer corps will do their utmost to comply with its conditions.
§ MR. CHARLES ALLENThen may I take it that service abroad is not to be the test for the general body of Volunteers?
§ MR. ARNOLD -FORSTERI am unable to understand how that impression can have arisen. I have said the Answer is in the negative.