Major BARNESasked the Secretary of State for War what was the strength of the forces stationed in Ireland in the year 1913–14; what was the cost; and what was the strength and cost in each of the six succeeding years?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe strength in 1913–14 was approximately 24,000 all ranks, and the cost £2,225,000 per annum, equal at present prices to nearly £6,000,000. The strength in December, 1919, was 43,000 all ranks, costing £10,225,000 per annum. For the inter vening war years the information is not readily available.