§ Mr. DOUGLAS HALLasked whether the recent Army Order requiring officers of Infantry battalions to purchase and wear a new expensive sash of gold lace was issued with the previous knowledge and authority of the Secretary of State for War?
§ Colonel SEELYYes, Sir.
§ Mr. DOUGLAS HALLMay I ask why the Secretary of State for War rescinded the order?
§ Colonel SEELYBecause he thought it advisable to do so.
§ Mr. DOUGLAS HALLasked whether he is aware that, in consequence of the recent issue of an order for a new sash to be worn by all officers of Infantry battalions, a number of such sashes were purchased, or were in process of manufacture by Army tailors; whether he is aware that, in consequence of the subsequent cancellation of the said order, loss has been inflicted upon those traders; and will he state if the War Office intends to compensate those traders for their loss?
§ Colonel SEELYA few representations to the effect of the statements contained 221 in the question have been received. The question of compensation is under consideration, and this would be facilitated if exact particulars of loss were forwarded to the War Office as soon as possible. It should, however, be understood that no claim on account of loss of prospective profit can be entertained.
§ Mr. DOUGLAS HALLIs not the action of the Secretary of State for War very detrimental to public economy?
§ Colonel SEELYI do not know; I should hesitate to say that. I think it might be an economical step to take.