HC Deb 01 April 1919 vol 114 cc1048-9
17. Colonel MILDMAY

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the prospective return of the 2nd Battalion Devon Regiment to England, he will consider the possibility of ensuring that it shall thereupon be brought to its headquarters at Exeter, as all Devonshire is desirous of welcoming the battalion home in a manner fitting its record in the War?

Captain GUEST

I am informed that this battalion will return from France as a cadre, but General Headquarters, France, have not yet notified the date of its return. The present proposal is to reconstitute the battalion at Devonport. If there is a strong desire that it should go to Exeter first, I will certainly have the matter considered, although from the War Office point of view, it would be more convenient if the reception were at Devonport.

Sir CLEMENT KINLOCH-COOKE

Will the hon. Gentleman take care that the centre is at Devonport?

Captain GUEST

If the desire expressed is sufficiently strong.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

It is very strong.