§ 49. Mr. MACMASTERasked what was the total numerical strength of the Regular Army and of the Regular Army Reserve on the 1st of August, 1914, and how many men have been recruited for the Regular Army since that date: what is the present numerical strength of the Territorial Army and Special Reserve respectively, and how many of each are now on service abroad; how many men have been recruited and accepted for service in the New Army popularly called Kitchener's Army; and if the numerical strength of the existing forces is not sufficient for the purposes required, what further forces, in the interests of the nation and under our obligations to our Allies, are necessary for the purpose of effectuallv prosecuting the War?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Asquith)All our military advisers are of the opinion, which is shared by the Government, that it would be detrimental to the interests of the country to publish at present such figures as are asked for in this question.