§ Colonel BATHURSTasked whether, in view of the fact that the South Midland Infantry Brigade has been selected to take part in the Army manœuvres in September next, he is aware that the equipment laid down in Table 2, Part III., Equipment Regulations, on which the county associations were directed to provide for the 373 Territorial Force, is on a peace scale and not on a war scale; whether it was the intention of the Army Council that the Territorial Force should be so equipped as to be able to take the field on the shortest possible notice; and whether he will consider the provision of webbing equipment, at least on loan, for use on manœuvres so that the Territorial Infantry may undertake their duty properly equipped?
§ Mr. MALLETThe accoutrements laid down in the Table 2 mentioned are not on a peace scale. The regulations leave the exact pattern to be procured to the discretion of the county association. It is understood that this brigade possesses bandolier equipment, which was up to last year the authorised equipment of all Infantry, and is still worn by Infantry in India and by all dismounted Regular troops other than Infantry. Web equipment is not available for loan on manœuvres. I am making further inquiries into the matter.