64. Major HOPEasked the Secretary of State for War whether the recent Order inviting Sections A and B, Army Reservists, to return to the Colours is confined to Reservists of particular regiments, 1493 and, if so, of which regiments; and whether it is proposed to offer any bounty in order to induce these Reservists to rejoin in sufficient numbers to make good the present shortage of 11,084 men in the Regular Army?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Tennant)The invitation is confined to certain Cavalry and Infantry units at home, some seventy-four in number. I can send the hon. and gallant Member a list if he desires. No bounty is being offered.
Major HOPEIs it not the case that 250 rupees is offered to induce time-expired men in India to extend their service with the Colours, and is it not almost equally important to maintain the Regular Army at home up to strength?
§ Mr. TENNANTThat is a different kind of case.
Major HOPEHas the hon. Gentleman no effective scheme or proposal to make good the present shortage at home?