HC Deb 11 May 1908 vol 188 cc707-8
MR. ASHLEY

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War when the walking-out uniform of the Territorial soldier will be issued; and whether, when issued, it will preserve the national and peculiar characteristics of individual corps.

MR. HALDANE

No new walking-out uniform has been specially approved for the Territorial Force. The uniforms are purchased by the County Associations and are not issued from Government store. In most cases corps will continue to wear the old uniform, or they may have two suits of service dress and wear no walking-out uniform. If Associations are desirous of providing a walking-out uniform of a new pattern, they are obliged to secure official approval.

MR. ASHLEY

Are we to understand that the War Office have nothing to do except to approve the pattern of the walking-out dress?

MR. HALDANE

The County Associations are to purchase them.

MR. ASHLEY

Did not the right hon. Gentleman send a Memorandum to the County Associations telling them not to purchase these walking-out uniforms until further, notice?

MR. HALDANE

They have instructions and know what to do.

EARL WINTERTON (Sussex, Horsham)

What instructions have been given then to the Associations?

MR. HALDANE

They have been informed that the old uniform may be used until the new pattern has been adopted.

MR. ASHLEY

Will the Territorial soldier have a walking-out uniform—whether the old pattern or new?

MR. HALDANE

Certainly.