§ Mr. HUNTasked, in view of the fact that Sir John French stated at West Ham, on Saturday, 27th April, that the Territorial troops are not fit and cannot be fit to face regular troops in the field, and that training on war conditions is absolutely necessary, what steps the Government propose to take to make the Territorial Force of any real use against the regular troops of an invading army?
§ Colonel SEELYI am informed by Sir John French that the published report of the speech mentioned is incomplete, and conveys an erroneous impression of what he actually said, and further that he did not say "Territorial troops are not fit and cannot be fit to face regular troops in the field." The hon. Gentleman's question does not therefore arise.
§ Mr. HUNTAre we to understand that General French practically repudiates what he is reported to have said in a great number of papers?
§ Colonel SEELYSir John French says he did not say what is attributed to him. I have a copy of what he did say. I will convey it to the House on another occasion.
MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEAre we to understand that he considers the Territorial Artillery is fit to stand up to Continental troops?
§ Colonel SEELYThat is not a question which can be discussed by way of question and answer. It will involve a long statement.