§ MR. HAROLD COX (Preston)To ask the Financial Secretary to the War Office, what is the annual cost of maintaining an infantry battalion of the line on a war footing, allowing for interest and depreciation upon the cost of barracks, for the wages of officers and men, and a proportionate charge for training and pensions, for stores, repairs and renewals, and every other necessary item.
(Answered by Mr. Buchanan.) My hon. friend is doubtless aware that no infantry battalion in this country or in the Colonies is maintained at war strength. The cost of a battalion at the war establishment of 1,007 (all ranks) at Home would be about £77,000 a year.