§ 10. Colonel LOCKWOODasked the Secretary of State for War whether there were any special reasons why the Essex Territorial Force, including cadets and National Reserve, were excluded from taking part in the loyal welcome to their Majesties on the occasion of their first visit to Essex since their accession to the Throne, in view of the fact that the Territorial Force intimated to the War Office in December, 1912, the desire of the Territorial Force to be permitted to take part in the ceremonies on 15th March, 1913; and whether he will consider the desirability of affording every opportunity to the Territorial Force, National Reserve, and other Territorial organisations to be present at national demonstrations of welcome and loyalty to their Majesties?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Colonel Seely)His Majesty's visit to Chingford was essentially of a civilian nature, and the presence of troops in any numbers was, therefore, not required. Had the visit been of a military character the Territorial Force would, of course, have taken part.
§ Colonel LOCKWOODIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there was a guard of honour of soldiers present?
§ Colonel SEELYYes, that was arranged at the last moment, for special reasons. The visit was essentially civilian in character. His Majesty arrived in a motorcar, in civilian dress, and the General Officer Commanding was not in uniform. Had the visit been of a military character I need hardly say that the Territorial Force would have been asked to take part.
§ Colonel LOCKWOODThe Territorial Force of Essex feel very much hurt that they were not allowed to take part.
§ Colonel SEELYSince the right hon. Gentleman is good enough to call my attention to the matter, I will say at once that I regret that they should feel hurt, but, this not being a military function, and expressly intended not to be, was not a case in which we could have troops in any number. In any future occasion when there is a military function I need hardly say that the Territorial Force and the other organisations referred to in the question, so far as they can be utilised, will be asked to take part.
Sir HENRY DALZIELCan the right hon. Gentleman tell us what notice the Territorial officer commanding had that his services would not be required, and is it not the fact that they were on the ground by arrangement, and only got a telegram at the last moment?
§ Colonel SEELYI do not know if there was a mistake of that kind, but I shall be glad to inquire if the hon. Member informs me of the circumstances.