§ Mr. Whitakerasked the Secretary of State for Defence how many soldiers are employed as grooms for polo ponies and private horses; what is the approximate consequent saving to the animals' owners; and whether, in view of the need for defence economies, he will in future either charge these owners this cost or transfer these soldiers to other duties.
§ Mr. BoydenRiding and polo are two of the recognised sports which are encouraged by the Army and the rules governing the use of military personnel and facilities are the same for riding and polo as for all other sports.
In the United Kingdom there were about 100 soldiers employed as grooms and 70 in Germany when a survey was made last June. No figures were sought from overseas commands.
Soldiers who volunteer to be grooms or to provide assistance for the carrying out of other sports remain fully liable for training and normal duties as required.
The savings, if any, to the various Army Saddle Clubs and private owners of ponies and horses, would be extremely difficult to ascertain and would not warrant the effort required.