HC Deb 03 March 1915 vol 70 cc779-80
17. Mr. SHIRLEY BENN

asked the Under-Secretary for India if the arrangements for feeding the Territorial battalions in India are now proving satisfactory; and, if they are not, if the Government intend taking any steps to improve the commissariat arrangements?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Mr. Charles Roberts)

In accordance with the answer given to a similar question by the hon. Member for Eastbourne on the 18th February, the Secretary of State has asked the Government of India for a report on the subject.

Sir J. D. REES

May I ask if it is impossible to make arrangements for the satisfactory feeding of the troops in a country where the beef is bad and the mutton is miserable?

Mr. ROBERTS

I have not received any statement which would lead me to believe that anything is really wrong with the feeding arrangements. The Secretary of State has agreed to make an inquiry. I must not be understood as agreeing with the statement of the hon. Member.

Mr. SHIRLEY BENN

May I ask the hon. Gentleman if questions on the subject are being asked by cable and by letter?

Mr. ROBERTS

I think they have been by letter.

Sir J. JARDINE

May I ask when the result of the inquiry is expected?

Mr. ROBERTS

As soon as possible.