 A small group opposed the bill on the grounds that the proposed force would be ineffective against Continental armies, whilst the Labour Party members generally opposed any increase in military strength.It had its third reading in June, passing with a comfortable majority, and received the Royal Assent in August; the Act became effective immediately, though the bulk of its reforms were scheduled to begin on 1 April 1908.The Act was divided into three main sections; the first created "County Associations", which would be the local bodies which would administer and support the Territorial units - they would, however, have no military control over them when called out for service.