§ Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAYasked the Secretary for War whether he will consider the advisability of extending the number of cavalry horses to be cast for age, which has been by a recent order limited to 4 per cent. for the financial year of 1909–10, having in view the importance of keeping up the normal supply of young horses, the curtailment of which would be detrimental to cavalry efficiency in case of war?
§ Mr. HALDANEThe hon. and gallant Member appears to be referring to a circular letter which merely laid down the percentage of horses which might be cast by Divisional and Brigade Commanders without previous reference to the War Office. As a matter of fact the normal percentage of replacements has for many years past been 10 per cent of the establishment, and provision is made in this year's estimates for replacements on this scale.
§ Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAYThe House may take it that 10 per cent. is the average, and not 4 per cent.?
§ Mr. HALDANEYes, that is what we have taken the money for this year.
§ Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAYThen there is no change?
§ Mr. HALDANENo change.