HC Deb 18 February 1930 vol 235 cc1194-5W
Major GLYN

asked the Secretary of State for War what is the present-day cost of maintaining for 12 months at home, in India, and at other overseas stations of a battalion of infantry, a battery of artillery, a company of garrison artillery, and a regiment of cavalry; and how does this figure compare with 1913?

Mr. SHAW

The hon. and gallant Member will find the approximate annual effective cost of typical units at home given on pages 292 and 293 of Army Estimates, 1929. As regards the Artillery, figures are given for the cost of a brigade which consists of a headquarters and three batteries. The Royal Garrison Artillery no longer exists a" such, its functions being included in those of the Royal Artillery generally. The cost of units in India is borne by the Government of India, and I am unable to give figures. The establishment of a unit stationed overseas differs from that of a unit at home, and the cost is appreciably higher, but varies according to its station. As regards the cost of units in 1913, no comparable figures are available as changes since 1913 in establishments, organisation, equipment, rates of pay and the general level of prices would render any comparison difficult.