HC Deb 08 March 1915 vol 70 cc1140-1
63. Colonel LOCKWOOD

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if he is aware that the principal waste of food at our own military camps takes place in bread and jam, which are not only being thrown away and sold, but given away wholesale in the villages; and whether the inquiry he proposes to make into the subject is to be Departmental?

75. Sir J. D. REES

asked what steps are being taken to prevent the waste in military camps of food provided by the taxpayers; whether experienced caterers are engaged whenever possible; and whether more food than is wanted is often given out, instead of such amount as each individual wishes to consume?

92. Sir JOHN BARRAN

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether his attention has been called to cases of extensive waste and thefts of food in connection with Aldershot camp; and, if so, whether he will give assurance to the House that these cases will be immediately and stringently investigated?

Mr. TENNANT

The wastage complained of, in so far as it is avoidable, is due to faulty regimental arrangements caused by lack of experience. Steps have been and are being taken to instruct units how to utilise the ration fully. In any well-fed community it is almost impossible to secure the complete consumption of every particle of food provided. In regard to Aldershot and the cases which the hon. and gallant Member for the Epping Division has mentioned, no reports of extensive waste and thefts of food have been received; but if my hon. Friends can give me information on which they can rely, I will of course have full inquiry made.

Colonel LOCKWOOD

Are the recipients of what is called stolen property prosecuted?

Mr. TENNANT

That would appear to be a matter for consideration if we had any information of the kind on which we could proceed.