HC Deb 05 November 1912 vol 43 cc1008-9
24. Sir HILDRED CARLILE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that the war between Turkey and the Balkan States has been practically decided within one month from the declaration of hostilities, he proposes to review the whole basis of the system on which the Territorial Force is constructed, in order to secure that the force, after mobilisation, should have six months' training before it takes the field?

Colonel SEELY

As naval considerations appear necessarily to be largely excluded from any conclusions to be drawn from recent events in Eastern Europe, the fact alleged in the question could hardly have any bearing on our military system.

Sir H. CARLILE

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is still of the same opinion as his predecessor that six months would be allowed the Territorial Force for training subsequent to the declaration of war?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member had better give notice of that question.