HC Deb 26 March 1908 vol 186 cc1560-1
MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAY (St. Andrews Burghs)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether reductions are to be made in the permanent staff of the Fife Royal Garrison Artillery Militia when it is formed into Field Artillery Special Reserve; what course will be taken with those members of the permanent staff who will lose their present appointments; and whether, considering the fact that they are mostly married men, warning may be given them before April to enable them to give notice to give up their houses.

MR. HALDANE

Some reductions will have to be made in the permanent staff, but they will not take place until after the annual training. Every endeavour will be made to avoid hardships as far as possible by giving sufficient warning. Those who are reduced will be absorbed in Royal Garrison Artillery units of the Territorial Force, or in Royal Garrison Artillery.

MR. ARNOLD FORSTER (Croydon)

By what proportion will the permanent staff be reduced?

MR. HALDANE

I cannot say at present.