§ Mr. ASHLEYI wish to ask the right hon. Gentleman what functions the proposed cavalry depot will discharge; and whether they will relieve the cavalry regiments at home from the task of finding drafts for regiments abroad?
§ Mr. HALDANEThe functions of the proposed cavalry depots will be:—In peace to act as—(a) Stations where regular recruits will be accommodated and drilled during the first three months of their service, prior to being despatched to the regiment at home; (b) Training centres for officers and N.C.O.'s of the Territorial Force; (c) Mobilisation centres for reservists. In war the depots will only be used as centres for the reception and clothing of recruits, the whole of the recruits' training being performed with reserve cavalry regiments which will be formed on mobilisation. Drafts for cavalry regiments abroad will be formed and despatched from the regiments at home, as is the case at present.