§ Mr. BROOKESasked the Secretary of State for War (1) whether he can make any statement as to the steps to be taken properly to equip the Volunteers without further delay; and whether he will consider the possibility of providing in the meantime discarded arms and equipment for the better training of the force; and (2) whether the Government have yet taken into consideration the proper equipment and enrolment of the Volunteer Force of the country; and whether he will consider the possibility, in view of the value of this organisation, of obviating appeals to the public and contributions by the men themselves for their outfit, equipment, and incidental expenses?
§ Mr. FORSTERI will answer these two questions together, and must apologise for the unavoidable delay in furnishing an answer. Enrolment in the Volunteer Force is now proceeding in 229 battalions, whose services His Majesty has accepted; other offers are in course of submission. Full particulars regarding method of enrolment were issued in May, and my Noble Friend the Under-Secretary of State does not think anything further is required in this direction. As regards rifles, clothing, and personal equipment, the hon. Member will, of course, bear in mind the heavy responsibilities in this respect resting upon the Army Council in reference to the troops abroad and also to those training at home. In any public provision of1514W rifles, clothing, and personal equipment which it may be possible to make—whether that provision should take the form of money or of issue in kind—it will be necessary to have regard to the suitability and availability for service of units. No hope can be held out that unlimited numbers will be equipped at the public expense, irrespective of the condition just stated.