§ MR. BIGGARasked the Under Secretary of State for India, Whether it is true that the pecuniary benefit granted by the Royal Warrant of 25th June 1881, and which took effect from 1st July 1881, were extended to all ranks of the British Army in India except Quartermasters; whether any representations were made by these Officers on the subject to their superiors, and with what result; whether the claims of such of them as held the rank of Captain, when admitted, were only allowed from the 1st October 1882, thus depriving them of fourteen months' difference in pay, &c. which was accorded to all other ranks; and, whether all Quartermasters serving in India, and who are below the rank of Captain, are still deprived of the benefits of the Warrant alluded to, notwithstanding the fact that they may have been in the enjoyment of these benefits before going to India?
§ MR. J. K. CROSSThe Royal Warrant of June 25, 1881, gave no officer or soldier any right to higher emoluments in India. It was especially laid down that the provisions regarding full pay and allowances did not apply to "our Indian Empire." It is not the case that the pecuniary benefits of the Warrant were extended to all ranks except Quartermasters. Where the Royal Warrant gave actual promotion, some, but not the full, pecuniary benefits of the higher rank were given to regimental officers in India. Representations were made on behalf of the Quartermasters and Riding Masters, and it was decided to raise the Indian allowances, but not the pay of those who were of 10 years' service and upwards, and these improved rates came into effect from the date of their being granted. The aggregate Indian pay and allowances of those below 10 years' service was considered adequate.