§ Major O'NEILLasked the Secretary of State for War (1) the annual saving that would be effected by the amalgamation of a one battalion regimental headquarters of Footguards with that of another regiment, on the assumption that two regimental bands and two staffs for record office purposes would still be necessary;
(2) whether the bands of the Irish and Welsh Guards have an establishment of 44, while the other three regiments are allowed 66; whether the latter are called upon to perform any more duties than the former; and the annual saving that would result from the reduction of all five regimental bands to the lower establishment, including the cost of pre-war uniform?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLAs I explained on Tuesday last, the whole question of effecting economies in the Guards is being considered, and the suggestions of the hon. and gallant Member will not be lost sight of. I think, however, it would prejudge 1767W the matter if at this stage I were to attempt to give further estimates in detail.