asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that weights carried by the private soldier, when in full marching order, have been increased during the past few years; and whether he is taking any steps to reduce these weights?

There has been no increase in the regulation weight carried by an infantry soldier during the last few years and there was a decrease of four pounds in 1924. The desirability of reducing the weight is fully recognised and the possibilities of doing so are under constant examination.

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when there was an increase? Was it in the last two years?

In the War there was an increase.

Not since?

A decrease since.