§ MR. BRYCE (Aberdeen, S.)I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether the Queen's regulations for the Transport Service fixing the prices of canteen articles to be supplied to troops on board transport vessels were applicable to the R.M.S. "Avondale Castle," on her voyage from Southampton to Cape Town, between 12th May and 10th June, and, if they were applicable, why these regulations were not adhered to, seeing that the troops on board that vessel were charged a price for aerated waters double that prescribed by the regulations; and will he state what action will be taken by the War Office in the matter, having regard to the observations made by the officer in command in his report on the voyage, and to the possibility that similar non-observances of the regulations may recur.
§ * MR. WYNDHAMThe owners of the "Avondale Castle" have explained that the overcharge for aerated waters was made by mistake. The amount involved is small, but if the Volunteer battalion applies for its refund the owners will be asked for the money.