22. Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTTasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether a commanding officer is entitled to require his subordinate officers to purchase 246 their kit from one particular firm; and whether he is aware that certain commanding officers in ordinary Infantry regiments are making an order to this effect, and that such practice involves increased expenditure to officers purchasing their kit and operates unfairly to the tailoring trade?
§ Mr. TENNANTNo, Sir. Such action would not be in accordance with the instructions which have been issued. If my hon. Friend has any specific information in his possession, I should be obliged if he would communicate it to me.
Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTTDoes the answer indicate that any such action by a commanding officer would be strongly disapproved of?
§ Mr. TENNANTYes, Sir; that is so.