Territorial Army (Reorganisation).

Oral Answers to Questions — British Army. – in the House of Commons at on 5 February 1929.

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Photo of Mr James Couper Mr James Couper , Glasgow Maryhill

19.

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the reorganisation of Territorial Army infantry into three rifle companies and one machine-gun company will involve reduction of establishment, and, if so, to what extent; and whether the mechanisation of Terri torial artillery will involve reduced establishment and, if so, to what extent?

Photo of Mr Worthington Evans Mr Worthington Evans , Colchester

Yes, Sir. In the former case the reductions in establishment will amount to approximately 50 men a battalion, and in the latter to approximately 2,200 in all.

Photo of Colonel Herbert Woodcock Colonel Herbert Woodcock , Liverpool Everton

What does the right hon. Gentleman estimate will be the saving through this reorganisation; and is he going to start reductions in the establishment of units not fully complete or other units?

Photo of Mr Worthington Evans Mr Worthington Evans , Colchester

As regards the first part of the question, it is very difficult to give an answer. The process of mechanisation is, in itself, expensive, and I doubt whether there will be any net saving. As regards the latter part of the question, reduction in numbers will come from wastage. There will not be any reduction in existing numbers—that is to say, no one will be dismissed—but there will not be any replacements.