§ 11. Lord CHARLES BERESFORDasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that the privilege of wearing plain clothes by non-commissioned officers below the rank of colour-sergeant, and men of the Royal Marine Artillery serving at Eastney Barracks has recently been cancelled; whether he is aware that hitherto these non-commissioned officers and men have been allowed to wear plain clothes whilst on pass in their station, and that the deprivation of this privilege has entailed hardship and dissatisfaction amongst all ranks, and is considered to be an unmerited punishment upon a body of men who have in no way contravened the Regulations, but who have, on the contrary, greatly appreciated the boon; and whether he will at once take steps to have the recent order abolished?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAIt appears that certain orders respecting the wearing of plain clothes recently issued by the General Officer Commanding the troops in the Southern Command have been taken by the Commandant to apply to the Royal Marine Artillery. The matter is now being investigated, and the result will be announced as soon as a decision is arrived at.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEMay I take that as a reply to my question, or shall I put it to the Secretary for War?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI am sorry, but I do not know the question to which my hon. Friend refers.