§ Mr. SANDYSasked what is the annual average sum lost to the country through desertions from the Army during the last five years; and whether any inquiry has recently been held as to the causes of desertion?
§ Mr. ACLANDDesertions from the Regular Army involve a direct loss of some £15,000 a year for debts of deserters to the public, rewards for their apprehension, and the conveyance of arrested deserters and escorts. The reply to the last part of the question is in the negative. If the hon. and gallant Member will refer to the General Annual Report he will see that there has been a steady decrease in desertion during the past few years.
§ Mr. ACLANDI do not think that has anything to do with the matter.
§ Mr. SPEAKERIt is quite unnecessary to answer that question.