An interesting debate was raised in the House of Lords
on Wednesday by Lord Monkswell, who called attention to the Report of Sir Edward Ward's Committee on the civil employ- ment of ex-soldiers and sailors, and asked what steps were being taken to carry its recommendations into effect. In reply Lord Portsmouth explained that a circular letter had been sent to General Officers Commanding at home and abroad pointing out the great necessity of taking such action as would ensure the technical training of soldiers during service with the colours. The Government intended to make some contribution towards the initial cost, and experiments were also being made in regard to the Navy. A standing Com- mittee, with Sir Edward Ward as chairman, would be ap- pointed to advise from time to time on the general question, to furnish information to the various Committees at home and abroad, and to keep in touch with civilian Committees out- side. Lord Tweedmouth said that the Admiralty was anxious as far as possible to co-operate with the sister-Service, but did not think it desirable to work in close association as the circumstances were so different in the two Services.
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