§ Mr. HUNTasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that Yeomanry are only mounted infantry and will be required to fight on foot against infantry armed with the bayonet, he will say what weapon is to be provided for them to take the place of the bayonet, which they will no longer carry with the short rifle?
§ Mr. HALDANEThe principles of the leading and training of Yeomanry in dismounted action are given in section 152 cavalry training. In the problem presented by the hon. Member, namely, that of the action of mounted troops on foot opposing infantry armed with the bayonet, the mobility of the Yeomanry has been overlooked by him. In consequence of this mobility the tactics of a mounted force are of such a nature that the possession of a bayonet is not considered necessary. The possibility of eventually arming the Yeomanry, when embodied, with a sword has not been lost sight of, but its use is for action when mounted.