§ 11 and 24. Sir J. D. REESasked the Under-Secretary of State for India (11) whether deductions are to be made under the National Insurance Act from the pay of soldiers of British regiments serving in India; if so, whether the assent of the Government of India was obtained to the 213 diversion of funds provided by it for pay to other objects; and asked the Secretary of State for War (24) whether, under the National Insurance Act, compulsory deductions are made from the pay of soldiers belonging to regiments of the British Army while they are serving in India; and, if the answer be in the affirmative, whether the concurrence of the India Office has been obtained to such diversion of funds provided by that Government for the specific purpose of paying troops and not for providing benefits which for the most part cannot be enjoyed until after the return of such troops to Home service?
§ Mr. MONTAGUUnder the National Insurance Act British soldiers serving in India are placed in precisely the same position, both as regards deductions and benefits, as those serving at home. This arrangement is fully concurred in by the Secretary of State for India.
§ Sir J. D. REESWhat is the authority for deducting pay provided by the Indian taxpayer and diverting it to some other purpose?
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEWill the right hon. Gentleman say whether the benefit is to be paid upon the application of the woman in England or the man in India?
§ Mr. MONTAGUI had rather my hon. Friend put a question down.