§ 22. Sir J. D. REESasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he has any official information regarding a raid made in the week ending 10th June by a small body of the Notts and Derby Regiment (Sherwood Foresters); whether they penetrated the enemy trenches and killed large numbers of the occupants; and whether he can make any statement on the subject?
§ Mr. RENDALLBefore this question is put, may I ask your ruling, Mr. Speaker, whether it is proper or in good taste that questions about the actions of particular regiments should be asked by, hon. Members?
§ Mr. TENNANTMay I say that I have a reference to that matter in my answer. I admire the hon. Gentleman's assiduity in inquiring for information in the interests of the Notts and Derby Regiment, but I tremble to think what my position would be if any large number of Members showed equal assiduity. Raids are a frequent occurrence, and the name of the regiment is mentioned only when, in the opinion of the military authorities in France, this can be done without unfairness to other units and without prejudice to the interests of the operations. I may add that the War Office has no information regarding any particular raid carried out by the Sherwood Foresters on the date in question.
§ Sir A. MARKHAMIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the hon. Member who put this question has no interest whatever in the counties of Nottingham and Derby other than that of being a Parliamentary candidate?