HC Deb 27 February 1908 vol 185 cc35-6
MR. PARTINGTON (Derbyshire, High Peak)

I beg to ask the Seecretary of State for War what is the organization proposed for cyclists in the Territorial Army, and if it is proposed to form battalions; how many are to be formed, and what will be their establishment; and what establishment of cyclists the infantry which have cyclist companies-or sections at present will be allowed to retain.

MR. HALDANE

The General Staff, who attach great importance to having cyclists in the Territorial Force, are of opinion that greater efficiency can be obtained with cyclists when organised and trained as battalions, and not as heretofore in companies or sections-forming part of infantry battalions. Cyclists will therefore be organised in battalions of 8 companies with a headquarter and machine-gun section. There will be 10 cyclists battalions, with an establishment of 22 officers and 532 other ranks, which includes a medical officer and 4 Territorial Medical Corps men. No cyclist companies or sections will be allowed to be retained in the Territorial infantry battalion.