HC Deb 20 July 1910 vol 19 cc1251-2
Mr. WATT

asked the Secretary for War whether he is aware that the arc of fire from which the public are advertised to absent themselves in order to avoid risk from the firing from Ardhallow battery on 18th to 29th July, is six miles on the firing side and twenty miles on the opposite side; and, if so, will he bring pressure to bear on the commanding officer to limit his demand on the sea space largely utilised by the public on holiday on these dates?

Mr. HALDANE

The arrangements for the practice are in the hands of the General Officer Commanding in Chief. I am inquiring whether any modification can be made to meet the difficulty to which the hon. Member refers.

Mr. WATT

Are we to understand that these distinguished artillerymen require ten miles on each side of the target in order to ensure the public safety?

Mr. WATT

asked the Secretary for War whether he can say what is the number of the artillery who take part in the gun practice from Ardhallow Battery advertised for 18th to 29th July instant; are they members of the Territorial Force or of the Regular Army; and, if of both, will he say in what proportion?

Mr. HALDANE

The units concerned are the 5th and 6th Companies Forth Royal Garrison Artillery belonging to the Territorial Force. The strength of these two companies amounts to five officers and 153 other ranks.