§ 66. Sir J. D. REESasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the central association of Volunteer Training Corps has authority to sanction uniforms for such corps; and, if so, whether such sanction is equivalent to the sanction of the War Office; whether, when such sanction has been given by the central association, the wearing of a brassard in addition to the uniform so sanctioned has in any case been ordered by the War Office; and whether, in the like circumstances, the wearing of a brassard in substitution for uniform has in many cases been ordered?
§ Mr. TENNANTBy the rules framed for corps affiliated to the Central Association of Volunteer Training Corps uniformity of dress is permissible among members of any corps, provided that this dress is distinguishable from that worn by the Regular and Territorial Forces. No authority is required for the adoption of any particular dress, but, owing to the large requirements of the Army, woollen fabrics are prohibited. The wearing of a brassard is also permitted.
§ Sir J. D. REESWill the right hon. Gentleman kindly answer the last part of my question?
§ Mr. TENNANTWhat I wanted to convey was that there is no order for the wearing of brassards, but permission has been given to wear them.
§ Sir J. D. REESIs he aware that no corps sanctioned by the War Office would wear the brassard, but nevertheless the wearing of a brassard is in order and is in the official orders of this association?
§ Mr. TENNANTI can only say if that be so the War Office is not responsible for the order issued.
§ Sir J. D. REESWill the right hon. Gentleman look into the matter?
§ Mr. TENNANTI will make it my business to look into the matter.
§ Mr. NIELDIs the right hon. Gentleman's answer consistent with the War Office letter of the 19th November, in which it was clearly stated that the wearing of a brassard is not authorised?
§ Mr. TENNANTThat is exactly what I stated in answer to a question.
§ Sir W. BYLESIs it open to any civilian to order a military uniform from his own tailor, and is the right hon. Gentleman aware that fraudulent use has already been made of this privilege?
§ Mr. TENNANTThat must always depend upon what the status of the individual is. If he is an officer and has received a commission he is entitled to order a uniform, but if he is a member of the Volunteer Training Corps he must conform to their rule.
§ Sir W. BYLESSupposing he is merely a common rascal?
§ Mr. TENNANTThen he should be treated as such.