§ Sir WILLOUGHBY DICKINSONasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that men in the Volunteer Force who are engaged on work on the rota system in connection with the London defences have had to sleep in tents during the recent cold weather; whether most of these men are over military age; and whether it would be possible to safeguard their health by providing huts as is done for the Regular soldiers?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONWith the exception of three instances, all Volunteers doing duty in the London defences are accommodated either in wooden huts or hutments, with adequate heating arrangements and sleeping accommodation installed. In the case of the three exceptions mentioned, ordinary bell-tents are in temporary use. These, however, are pitched in sheltered positions, and, in addition to oil stoves being provided, the men have also been supplied with bed boards, palliasses, pillows, and four blankets to each man. In the majority of cases the Volunteers are men over military age. The fact is fully recognised, and the necessary allowances are always made.