Sir HENRY DALZIELasked the Secretary of State for War whether it is still his intention that Lord Kitchener should succeed to the post of Inspector-General of the Forces in the Mediterranean and 1054 South Africa; and, if so, can he state approximately when the duties will be entered upon?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Haldane)To my great regret, Lord Kitchener has informed me that he does not now desire to take up his appointment to the Mediterranean Command. The Government, however, consider the appointment of much importance in connection with recent and prospective developments, and they propose to continue it. The appointment would, however, even in the hands of Lord Kitchener, have been the subject of modifications and additions, which I shall be prepared to state a little later on. I may, however, mention that the duty of inspecting the military forces overseas, except in India, will attach to this post, the holder of which will not be always in residence at Malta. As the post will be of an exclusive military character, it will not now be necessary to retain the title of High Commissioner in connection with it.
Sir HENRY DALZIELCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether he has in contemplation utilising Lord Kitchener's services?
§ Mr. HALDANELord Kitchener's services are a great national asset. I am glad to say that as a Field-Marshal he remains on the active list.
§ Mr. ARTHUR LEECan the right hon. Gentleman say when the Government expects to be in a position to announce the name of the officer who is to hold the new appointment.
§ Mr. HALDANEI think very shortly indeed.
§ Earl WINTERTONDo the words "recent and coming developments" refer to> the international situation?
§ Mr. HALDANEThey do not refer to-the international situation, but to the reorganisation which, as the hon. Gentleman is well aware, has taken place.