§ 14 and 15. Mr. SANDYSasked the Secretary of State for War (1) if he will give the Returns relative to the numbers of officers and men in the Territorial Force on 1st August, 1913, 1st September, 1913, 1st October, 1913, 1st November, 1913, 1st December, 1913, and 1st January, 1914; and what were the numbers of the force at the corresponding dates twelve months previously; and (2) if he will give the latest Returns relative to the numbers of officers and men of the Territorial Force; what were the numbers at the corresponding period last year; what is the increase or decline shown; and by how many the present numbers fall below the establishment?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Colonel Seely)The answer to this and the next question involves a long string of figures, and the hon. Gentleman will therefore perhaps permit me to circulate it with the Votes.—[See Written Answers this date.]
§ Mr. SANDYSPerhaps the right hon. Gentleman will be able to say whether he is taking any practical steps to deal with the shortage?
MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEWill the right hon. Gentleman also include in the answer what he considers is the lowest margin of safety in numbers?
§ Colonel SEELYI could hardly say that in reply to a question which asks for a Return. I could hardly enter into controversial matters of that kind.
§ Mr. HUNTIn view of the fact that the right hon. Gentleman has been asked the question a great many times, could he tell us when he will be able to give an answer?
§ Colonel SEELYI am asked for certain figures, which I am very anxious to give, and the question of what it is expedient or wise to do is not one which I have been asked.