HC Deb 18 November 1914 vol 68 c428
62. Mr. HOGGE

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office, if he will state why Members of Parliament cannot even get replies to civil inquiries about the rights of their constituents from Paymasters?

Mr. BAKER

The orders of the War Office are that all such inquiries are to be promptly answered. I much regret it if the hon. Member has experienced any failure in this respect, but I have already explained the exceptional conditions under which these officials were working.

Mr. HOGGE

Is my hon. Friend aware that some of us never get any reply at all?

Mr. BAKER

I have explained the reason and expressed regret.

Mr. HOGGE

Is it possible to increase the number of the Paymasters' staff?

Mr. BAKER

The staff has been very considerably increased, and I really do not think that the hon. Member will have need to complain now.