§ COLONEL LOCKWOODI beg to ask the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether a man's regimental savings bank account is shown in his non-effective account, and has this item been rendered by the battery in the case of Sergeant-Major Garner; and whether the savings bank account of the battery has been submitted for audit since 1899.
At the same time, may I ask the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the remainder of Sergeant-Major Garner's estate has been issued, as stated by the Financial Secretary; and, if so, has the non-effective account also been received, and on what date was the remainder of the estate issued; and, considering that eighteen months have elapsed since Sergeant-Major Garner's death, in justice to his widow, can inquiries be made by telegraph at the battery which is in standing camp at Natal.
LORD STANLEYIt appears that at the end of June, 1899, Sergeant-Major Garner had about £135 to his credit in his savings bank account. His non-effective account has not been received owing to the fact of his battery, which was engaged at Dundee, being unable to furnish the details. Enquiry has been made by telegram and every endeavour is being made to clear up the matter. The balance of money due to the Sergeant Major, with his war and discharge gratuities, has been provisionally issued, and although it is against all regulations I have authorised the payment of half the amount shown to be in the savings bank according to our last return.