HC Deb 05 May 1927 vol 205 cc1764-5
50. Mr. ROBINSON

asked the Secretary of State for War, having regard to the urgent need for economy and the ineffectiveness of cavalry in modern warfare, if he will consider the desirability of disbanding the Royal Horse Guards and eight cavalry regiments of the line; and whether he is aware that, if this was done, after allowing for retired pay and such compensation as may be payable in respect of the termination of engagements in the public interests, the annual saving would be not less than £700,000?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Captain Douglas King)

No, Sir.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Can the hon. and gallant Gentleman say whether, after the enthusiastic interest shown in the question of economy in this House last night, he is taking any means to effect any economies in his own Department?

Colonel APPLIN

May I ask whether it is not the fact that the cavalry were mainly responsible for the success of General Allenby's campaign in Palestine?

Mr. SPEAKER

That is rather too wide a subject for a supplementary question.