HC Deb 21 February 1912 vol 34 cc701-2W
Mr. STANIER

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he can state the shortage in officers and men of the Special Reserve and Territorial Forces for 1st January, 1909, 1910, 1911, and 1912?

Colonel SEELY

The figures for 1st January in each year are as follows:—

Special Reserve. Territorial Force.
Officers. N.C.O.'s and Men. Officers. N.C.O.'s and Men.
1909 1,293 11,267 2,629 103,410
1910 1,225 18,047 1,518 39,236
1911 1,253 21,880 1,514 44,106
1912 1,296 28,393 1,846 45,545

Mr. ASHLEY

asked when the Territorial Advisory Council last met?

Colonel SEELY

The Council last met on 18th July, 1911. The Council is to meet again next month.

Mr. CROFT

asked what percentage of the Territorial Infantry failed to pass the standard test in shooting during the last completed year?

Colonel SEELY

As regards the Infantry, including the field companies of the Royal Engineers, 28.8 per cent. of the total strength failed to qualify in the standard test (as against 32 per cent. in the previous year), but of these 17.5 per cent. afterwards qualified by attendance at open, thirty yards, or miniature cartridge ranges under paragraph 361 (2) and (3) Territorial Force Regulations.