HC Deb 06 April 1908 vol 187 cc921-2
MR. ASHLEY (Lancashire, Blackpool)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War what steps are being taken to

Establishment. Strength. Surplus. Deficit.
Home and Colonies 157,958 153,755 — 4,203
India 72,692 72,751 59 —
230,650 226,506 — —
Net deficit 4,144

It will be time to consider raising the home establishment when the strength of units at home has reached the present establishment. The Army Council, as the hon. Member is doubtless aware, has

provide ranges for the Territorial Artillery.

MR. HALDANE

The General Officers Commanding-in-Chief have been instructed to place themselves in communication with the County Associations in reference to possible artillery ranges.

MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER (Croydon)

Have any funds been set aside for the provision of these now ranges?

MR. HALDANE

No money has been taken in the Estimates.

MR. ASHLEY

Then what will the now force do for ranges?

MR. HALDANE

We shall do the best we can for them with the existing ones.

MR. ASHLEY

But are they not all fully occupied?

[No answer was returned.]