In the debate which followed Mr. Haldane's speech a good
deal of hostile criticism was developed on both sides of the House. Mr. Arnold-Forster, while he rejoiced at the economy, regretted the way in which it was to be brought about. If the Government were going to create a new Auxiliary Arm3r, they bad better complete its organisation before they reduced the Regular Forces. The seven years' basis of enlistment would not afford the necessary power of expansion. He deprecated the notion of relying on a casual County Council Army. Sir Charles Dilke also questioned whether any great or lasting reductions would be obtained under Mr. Haldane's plan. Mr. Balfour strongly endorsed the demand previously made
by Mr. Arnold-Forster for ample time for the discussion of the new scheme by the House. As regards the proposals for the Territorial Army Mr. Balfour desired further information. Re would have consented, and gladly consented, to the proposed reductions if the Secretary of State had produced a scheme by which he could expand the Army in ease of national emergency. But he had no scheme at all. He had only hopes, expecta- tions, dreams. Mr. Haldane at the close of his reply to his critics expressed his strong approval of the Cardwell system. " The more I look into it, and the more I have discussed it with different experts, the more I am impressed with the great idea which underlies it." He was perfectly well aware that it was not possible for him to please everybody. He had to do the best he could. He had got to produce a scheme which satisfied his colleagues. If they produced a scheme, he trusted it would be a scheme into which the majority of the House would put their backs, because otherwise they would not do any good with it. On the Motion of Sir Howard Vincent, the debate stood adjourned.
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