HC Deb 03 May 1955 vol 540 cc104-6W
31. Mr. Wyatt

asked the Secretary of State for War what units have grooms on their establishment; what is the number of grooms allowed in each case; and what are their duties.

Mr. Head

Grooms are included in 13 establishments. The details are given below. These soldiers are employed on grooming, exercising, preparation for ceremonial occasions and the general care of the animals under their charge. The following is the list of units:

Unit Number of Grooms
Military Civilian
H.Q. London District 1
Regt. H.Q. Household Cavalry 1
Household Cavalry Training Cadre 8
Two horse squadrons, Household Cavalry (4 each) 8
King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery 1 (RAVC)
R.H.Q. for each Regiment of the Foot Guards (2 each) 10
Horse Transport Training Company, R.A.S.C. 2
81 Pack Transport Troop R.A.S.C. 3
R.A.V.C. Training Centre and Depot 13 14
1 Veterinary, Remount and War Dog Unit, R.A.V.C., B.A.O.R. 5
V. & R. Establishment, Moascar 1 (also 1 for every 3 animals held)
Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst 2
School of Infantry Tactical Wing 2
49 22 plus

32. Mr. Wyatt

asked the Secretary of State for War why two Welsh Guard regimental grooms in uniform were instructed to act as horse holders at the paddock and start on 9th April last at the South Oxfordshire Hunt point-to-point races, on which occasion the starter was Major J. Miller.

Mr. Head

The two guardsmen concerned are voluntarily employed part-time in the Brigade of Guards Saddle Club. This arrangement is permitted by a long standing rule. They volunteered to attend the South Oxfordshire Hunt point-to-point races to help in the paddock and at the start.