§ 20. Viscount SANDONasked the Secretary of State for War, whether his attention has been called to the fact that Territorial troops on returning from camp entrained in Northumberland on 15th August last took over 22 hours to reach Stafford, though their special train was duo 11½ hours earlier; that there was no provision of any sanitary conveniences, and that no food was obtainable either on the train or at any of the stopping places; and what action he has taken to prevent a recurrence of this situation, in view of its damage to Territorial recruiting?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Captain Douglas King)My attention has already been drawn to this case. The War Office are greatly concerned that Territorial troops should have been subjected to so much discomfort and inconvenience, and they are in communication with the railway company to prevent such an occurrence in future.
§ Lieut.-Colonel FREMANTLEAre we to take it that the War Office look upon this purely and solely as a matter of comfort and convenience, and not as a deadly question of efficiency and safety?
§ Captain KINGI do not think my hon. and gallant Friend will draw that deduction from my answer. I have already expressed the concern of the War Office.