§ MR. SHEEHAN (Cork County, Mid.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the managers of military canteens supply civilians, particularly in county towns in Ireland, with goods; and, if so, will he state whether this is in accordance with military rules; and whether, with a view of preventing interference with the interests of local traders, he will take steps to secure the discontinuance of this practice.
§ MR. ARNOLD-FORSTERThe King's Regulations in paragraph 1015, which deals with purchases at canteens, lays down that "No Civilians are to be allowed to purchase articles in any of the establishments at any time." There is no reason to believe that this regulation is infringed and I shall be glad if the hon. Member will furnish me with any particulars giving grounds for the statement contained in the Question.
§ MR. THOMAS O'DONNELL (Kerry, W.)Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to stop this practice?
§ MR. ARNOLD-FORSTERIf the hon. Member can give me any evidence of irregularity I will do my best to stop it.