76. Mr. CHANCELLORasked the Under-Secretary of State for War what quantity of rum has been supplied to the troops at the front; what is the total price paid for it; and will he give the names of the firms from whom it has been purchased?
Mr. BAKERThe total quantity sent overseas is 509,079 gallons. The purchases were made through the Government brokers. I will inform my hon. Friend of the cost as soon as it can be calculated.
77. Mr. CHANCELLORasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether any 1144 steps are taken before its issue to ascertain from soldiers entitled to the rum ration whether they desire it or not; and whether any and, if so, what alternative is provided for those who do not desire rum?
§ Mr. TENNANTAs I have repeatedly stated, rum is issued only to those who desire it and on recommendation of medical officers. No alternative is provided.
Mr. CHANCELLORCould not arrangements be made by which the soldiers can be provided with tea and coffee—
§ Mr. T. M. HEALYWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the desirability of issuing rations of cocoa?
§ Mr. TENNANTCoffee, perhaps.
78. Mr. CHANCELLORasked the Under-Secretary of State for War if canteens are being established in France for the supply of troops; if so, how many and through what contractors; and whether, in view of the expressed opinion of Lord Kitchener against the consumption of intoxicants by soldiers and the physical and moral injury arising therefrom, intoxicating liquors will be excluded from all canteens or, if not, under what restrictions will their sale be permitted?
§ Mr. TENNANTAn organisation has been approved for the supply to the British troops in France of small comforts and articles such as they are used to purchasing in their canteens or regimental institutes. The Canteen and Mess Co-operative Society, Limited, with whom for the purpose Messrs. Dickeson and Company, Limited, are associated, have consented to form this organisation, which is to be called the Expeditionary Force Canteen Co-operative Society. Neither the Canteen and Mess Co-operative Society nor Messrs. Dickeson will take any share of the profits, the whole of which will be devoted to the-good of the soldier and his dependants. The business will be entirely under military control. The only beverage sold which might come under the category of intoxicants is the light French beer, and I am advised that the intoxicating power of this is very slight.