§ 18. Mr. SANDYSasked for the latest returns relative to the numbers of officers and men in the Territorial Force; and if he will state what were the numbers of the force at the corresponding period last year and what is the increase or decline shown?
§ 19. Mr. BENNETT-GOLDNEYalso asked what were the actual numbers of the strength of the Territorial Force, both for officers and non-commissioned officers and men, on May Day last?
§ Colonel SEELYThe figures required are as follows:—
showing decreases of 86 officers and 24,039 non-commissioned officers and men.
Officers. N.C.O.'s and Men. 1st May, 1912 9,393 266,130 1st May, 1913 9,307 242,091
§ Mr. SANDYSIn view of the right hon. Gentleman's reply, may I ask him, as a matter of fact, whether the General Staff are still satisfied that the Territorial Force are able to fulfil the defence required?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member cannot put highly controversial matters at Question Time. He will have an opportunity on the Estimates.