HC Deb 06 May 1909 vol 4 c1327W
Sir SAMUEL SCOTT

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the cavalry of the Territorial Army are cavalry or mounted infantry; if the former, why are they not armed as cavalry; and if the latter, from what source he proposes to find for the Territorial Army the cavalry necessary to carry out operations in the field?

Mr. HALDANE

The yeomanry is so trained as to be capable of performing all the duties allotted to cavalry except those connected with shock action. The force is therefore not armed with the sword. It is considered that the mounted troops of the Territorial Force are suitably armed to enable them to perform the duties required of them in connection with home defence.

Mr. KEIR HARDIE

asked the Secretary for War whether he has issued or will cause to be issued to the Territorial county associations an intimation to the effect that the grant for uniforms can only be made to those associations which insert the Government's fair wage clause in all their clothing contracts?

Mr. HALDANE

The attention of county associations was called last year to the fair wages clause in Army contracts, and it was suggested to them that it would be desirable to insert a similar clause in their contracts. Should it appear that this action has not been sufficient to secure proper conditions of employment generally, I shall consult the associations with a view to agreement upon further action, by which proper conditions may be secured.