HC Deb 16 August 1901 vol 99 cc1142-3
MR. KEIR HARDIE (Merthyr Tydvil)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the officer commanding the 3rd Battalion of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers insured the life of each member of his company who went out to South Africa; whether he can state what sums have been paid in respect of such policies and to whom; and whether this officer was acting in this matter with the knowledge and consent or sanction of the War Office.

LORD STANLEY

I am not aware of this transaction, which, if it exists, is purely a private transaction, and does not concern the War Office.

MR. KEIR HARDIE

If such a thing has been done, could the noble Lord prevent it?

LORD STANLEY

No, Sir; it is a purely private transaction.

MR. KEIR HARDIE

Is an officer allowed to make money by insuring the lives of soldiers?

MR. FLAVIN (Kerry, N.)

Had he the power to send the men into the fighting line?