HL Deb 08 April 1881 vol 260 cc1007-8

THE EARL OF GALLOWAY moved for a Return showing the amount of expenditure estimated by the change of uniform involved in the proposed organization of territorial regiments, both as affecting individual officers and the public purse. He hoped the Government would find it convenient to lay the information upon the Table the first day after the Recess. Moved, That an humble Address be presented to Her Majesty for Return showing the amount of expenditure estimated by the change of uniform involved in the proposed organization of territorial regiments, both as affecting individual officers and the public purse.—(The Earl of Galloway.)

THE EARL OF MORLEY

could not assent to the Motion. The expense of the proposed changes would not be considerable in the case of the large majority of regiments, as only badges and facings would be changed this year. The more important changes, such as alterations in the colour of uniforms, would be deferred till the next issue of new clothing. Besides, it would be almost impossible to produce a Return that would not be misleading.

THE EARL OF LONGFORD

said, such an extraordinary scheme as that to which the question referred might have been devised in Colney Hatch.

THE EARL OF GALLOWAY

said, after that expression of the noble Earl the Under Secretary, he would, of course, not press the Motion; but he could not refrain from expressing his surprise that this great change had been decided on without the War Office apparently having any information as to the expense.

Motion (by leave of the House) withdrawn.