§ 21 and 22. Mr. JOYNSON - HICKSasked the Secretary of State for War (1) what is the average total amount deducted per annum from the officers of the Army in respect of furniture up-keep; and what is the average annual cost of such up-keep; and (2) what was the amount expended on the purchase of officers' furniture at the inception of the present system; what is the total sum since received from officers; and what has been since expended on renewals?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. Harold Baker)The average annual amount paid by officers for furniture hire is about £22,000. Statistics are not available to show the other figures asked for in detail; but the hon. Member will find full information as to the basis of these charges in Command Paper No. 1421, Session 1903.
MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEIn view of the fact that the capital value of this furniture in almost every barracks in the Kingdom has been paid off, is it not about time that the premium asked from the officers was reduced?
§ Mr. BAKERI will consider that. These charges were fixed exactly according to the recommendations of that Committee, and there is no evidence that the position has changed since that time.
§ Colonel YATEWill the hon. Gentleman consider the question of abolishing these charges altogether?