HC Deb 22 August 1911 vol 29 cc2382-3W
Mr. LANSBURY

asked the Undersecretary of State for War how many rounds of ball cartridge were served out to the soldiers told off to guard the railway stations in the Metropolitan area during the railway strike; what orders were given the General and officers commanding these men; and, if the orders were written, will he circulate copies with the Votes?

Colonel SEELY

The amount of ammunition to be carried by troops detached in aid of the civil power is governed by Paragraph 1722 of the King's Regulations, which lays down that the requisite number of rounds will be carried. Paragraphs 948 and 968 inclusive of King's Regulations lay down in full detail the duties of troops detached in aid of the civil power. Instructions were issued to all general officers commanding-in-chief directing them to ensure that every officer should make a special study of these paragraphs in the Regulations. Orders were also issued with regard to the sounding of a bugle before the reading of the Proclamation under the Riot Act, as I explained in reply to a question put by my hon. Friend the Member for the Scotland Division of Liverpool last week.

Mr. ROWNTREE

asked the Undersecretary of State for War whether the military at present stationed in York in connection with the North-Eastern Railway dispute are under the control of the War Office; and if so, considering the good order now prevailing in the city the War Office will see that in the performance of the police duty which they are undertaking every effort is made to prevent them appearing unduly provocative through the unnecessary display of rifles and bayonets.

Colonel SEELY

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, although it is understood that the officer commanding is in constant touch with the local civil authorities. As regards the latter part, the reports received indicate that the troops have generally behaved with very great effort and forbearance, and my hon. Friend can rest assured every effort will be made by them to avoid anything in. the nature of unnecessary provocation.