HC Deb 30 July 1912 vol 41 cc1827-8
15. Colonel HICKMAN

asked whether any extra money has been or will be allotted to the county associations to enable them to organise rifle clubs; can he explain what he means by a proportion of rifles free of cost; how many rifles are to be given to the National Reserve free of cost; and will he explain why the National Reserve should be asked to provide any proportion of the necessary rifles at their own expense?

Colonel SEELY

No extra money has been allotted, nor is it proposed to allot any to county associations for the organisation of rifle clubs for the National Reserve over and above the allowance of 1s. per head authorised by the regulations. Rifles are issued for a number not exceeding 10 per cent. of the registered members on the strength of the rifle club on "long loan." and free of cost of carriage. The National Reserve are not asked or expected to provide any rifles at their own expense.

Captain CRAIG

Does that apply to Ireland?

An HON. MEMBER

They have rivets there.

Colonel SEELY

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman would say what part.

Captain CRAIG

I would ask an answer, as there is a free issue of 10 per cent. of rifles, according to the number of inhabitants.

Colonel SEELY

I should be glad if the hon. and gallant Gentleman will put forward any scheme.

16. Colonel HICKMAN

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can now make any statement of his intentions as regards measures to be taken to make some practical use of the men now enrolled in the National Reserve?

Colonel SEELY

I am not at present in a position to make any general statement on this subject.

17. Colonel HICKMAN

asked whether any money is to be assigned in the near future to provide headquarters for each battalion of the National Reserve, and for arms, equipment, and clothing for the same on mobilisation, or whether the Government expect the officers of the same to provide the money for such necessary services out of their private incomes?

Colonel SEELY

There is no present intention of providing headquarters for battalions of the National Reserve. On mobilisation, arms, equipment, and clothing will be provided for individual members of the reserve whose services may be accepted, but there is no present intention of mobilising the reserve by units.