HC Deb 14 May 1912 vol 38 cc946-7
Major ARCHER-SHEE

asked why the War Office refused to grant any allowance to officers and non-commissioned officers of the Army for the use of private horse vehicles in the public service, on the ground that no extra expense was involved in such use, whilst they did allow extra allowance in the case of private motor cars which were used in the public service?

Mr. TENNANT

A journey in a motor car involves immediate and obvious expenditure on petrol and in the way of wear and tear of tyres, while a journey by horse vehicle involves no measurable addition to the constant expenditure which the upkeep of the horse and vehicle entails.

Major ARCHER-SHEE

Is there any logical excuse for refusing to allow money for forage and wear and tear whereas it is allowed for petrol and wear and tear?

Mr. TENNANT

I think the logic is on the other side.

Major ARCHER-SHEE

As great dissatisfaction exists in the service owing to this unfair discrimination between oats and petrol, and as it could be altered at very little expense to the public, will the hon. Gentleman reconsider the position?

Mr. TENNANT

The horse has to be exercised in any case.