§ VISCOUNT TURNOUR (Sussex, Horsham)To ask the Secretary of State for War whether route marches through agricultural districts have almost invariably resulted in a number of recruits being obtained; and, if so, whether he will see his way to insisting upon such marches taking place more frequently in the future.
(Answered by Mr. Secretary Haldane.) The recruiting marches that have taken place in the last few years have varied considerably in respect of the results attained, and in some cases the numbers of recruits raised do not appear to justify the expenditure involved. The matter rests to a certain extent with the General Officer Commanding in Chief in each command to arrange from the funds at his disposal, but it is not proposed to interfere with his discretion. Any proposals for such marches that may be forwarded to the War Office receive favourable consideration should the state of finances admit of the expenditure involved.