§ 24. Sir WILLIAM BYLESasked the Secretary of State for War whether His Majesty's troops were used to welcome and accompany Lord Roberts on his recent visit to Leeds; and whether, seeing that his visit was entirely non-official and undertaken to promote a political object of a controversial character and opposed to the declared policy of His Majesty's Government, he will say what are the precedents, if any, for such employment of the national forces?
§ Colonel SEELYI am informed that on the occasion in question the local Territorial Force applied for permission under paragraph 543, Territorial Force Regulations, to furnish a guard of honour to Lord Roberts on his visit to Leeds, and that such permission was granted by the general officer commanding-in-chief concerned.
§ Sir W. BYLESDoes the right hon. Gentleman allow that the visit was for a political object?
§ Colonel SEELYThe circumstances were rather peculiar. It was very proper that a distinguished Field Marshal who was being welcomed by the Lord Mayor should receive such a courtesy. On the other hand, the meeting subsequently 336 held, it is quite true, as indicated in the question, was in flat contradiction to the declared policy of His Majesty's Government.
§ Sir W. BYLESWhen I go down to speak against conscription, shall I have a guard of honour?
§ Colonel SEELYIf my hon. Friend can come within the category laid down, I am sure that he will be entitled to it. It is for the rank of Field Marshal.