§ Mr. Bellengerasked the Secretary of State for War what is the average messing charge paid by British officers serving in India.
§ Mr. AmeryI have been asked to reply. I cannot give a reliable average figure, as messing charges vary both according to locality and according to the conditions under which officers are serving. Since December, 1943, however maximum charges for officers have been fixed by Indian Army Order at 1 Re. 8 As. per day where free rations are drawn, and 3 Rs. 8 As. per day where rations are not issued in kind. These rates may be exceeded only by permission of the Brigade Commander and this is only granted where prices in the locality render it essential.