HC Deb 09 April 1913 vol 51 c1160
31. Mr. HUNT

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will state the number of Territorial Force Associations which have passed resolutions in favour of some form of compulsory training being introduced for Home defence?

Colonel SEELY

Resolutions have been received from nine out of the ninety-four associations.

Mr. HUNT

If the majority of the associations decide in favour of compulsion, will the right hon. Gentleman ask the Prime Minister to make it a non-party question?

Colonel SEELY

That is a hypothetical question. As to its being imminent, nine out of ninety-four is not very near a majority.

Mr. HUNT

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many of the other associations are only waiting for a few months before deciding to follow on the same lines?