§ 25. Mr. ASHLEYasked why at a port near London where troops do not embark, and which is only used to ship stores and material, and at other ports of a similar character, it is considered that one of the senior military officers of the supplies reserve depot is not competent to deal with the military side of the shipping work, and cannot be relied on to link up the supply staff with the naval transport staff?
§ Mr. TENNANTI have already answered this question in previous replies, and there is nothing to be added to what I have already said.
§ Mr. ASHLEYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these Regular staff officers are not considered necessary at the ports in France where stores are embarked. They were never used in the South African War, and are they necessary now?
§ Mr. TENNANTI have already stated that they are considered necessary, and I cannot place the hon. Member's opinion or mine against that of the military authorities.