HC Deb 17 June 1913 vol 54 cc188-9
17. Captain FABER

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will state the number of recruits short in the Regular Army for this year on the 1st May as compared with last?

Colonel SEELY

The total number of recruits taken in the period from 1st October, 1912, to 30th April, 1913, was 17,829, as compared with 19,360 in the corresponding period of the previous year.

Captain FABER

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what will be done as regards the Indian forces, in view of the shortage of recruits at Home?

Colonel SEELY

There is always a shortage of recruits when we have exceptionally good trade. We have anticipated this, so that there will be no difficulty in supplying the necessary troops for India.