§ Mr. COURTHOPEasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether officers of the Regular Forces are required in future to provide themselves with a gold sash, similar to the sash the use of which was discontinued some years ago; and whether, in view of the inadequacy of the pay of junior officers, the Secretary of State will consider the possibility of relieving officers of this expense?
§ Colonel SEELYThe reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part of the question, there are no funds at the disposal of the Secretary of State to enable him to meet this expenditure.
§ Mr. MALCOLMasked the Under-Secretary for War, whether he is aware that the proposed new crimson and gold sash for officers of the Line and Territorial battalions is quoted by Army tailors at £5 15s.; and whether its purchase is to be compulsory for those of junior rank whose present pay was stated by the Secretary of State for War to be already inadequate?
§ Colonel SEELYIt is understood that the price of the new sash is from £5 to £6, according to the firm from which it is purchased. All Infantry officers other than those of Highland, Scottish, and Rifle Corps will be required to wear it.