§ MR. FLYNN (Cork, N.)To ask the Secretary of State for War what was the increase on Army Expenditure in the financial year 1905–6 compared with that in 1895–6 and 1885–6, respectively.
(Answered by Mr. Secretary Haldane.) The figures are as follows: —
§ Line, and what proportion, if any, of these will be retained when the new arrangement whereby recruits will proceed direct to their battalion comes into operation; whether, when that time arrives, the present strength of the depots at Winchester (Rifle Brigade and 60th), Newcastle, Lichfield, and Bury will be maintained; and, if not, by what numbers will they, respectively, be reduced.
§ (Answered by Mr. Secretary Haldane.) The question of sending Line recruits direct to Home battalions for training is still under consideration, and nothing is yet settled definitely. It is largely a question of barrack accommodation. In 309 any case the regular staff, which it is proposed to maintain for the 3rd battalions at existing depot barracks, viz., nine officers and seventy-six other ranks, is held to be sufficient for the purpose of training not merely the recruits of the special contingent, but, if necessary, recruits for the Line as well.