§ 19. Colonel SHARMAN-CRAWFORDasked the Secretary of State for War whether the late Board of Control of Military Canteens has handed over to its successor, the Military Canteen Committee, the sum of £163,000; if so, to what purpose is it going to be allotted; and whether a portion of it can be applied to assist in creasing the supply of potatoes to the troops at home, who are now limited to the allowance of half a pound per diem?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe Army Council has requested the late Board of Control of Regimental Institutes to hand over its central fund, which amounted to £163,000, and it is hoped that the transfer will be effected as soon as the actual sum to be transferred is ascertained. The fund will in future be administered by the Army Canteen Committee, under the directions of the Army Council for the benefit of the Army. Other measures are being taken which it is hoped will result in an improved supply of potatoes to the troops at home, and which will not necessitate drawing on this fund.
§ Colonel SHARMAN-CRAWFORDWill the hon. Gentleman take steps to see that the scandals do not arise which took place after the South African War?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe object is to prevent any scandals arising. The whole question of canteen management was entrusted to the Board of Regimental Institutes, and 294 lately to the Army Canteens Committee, who will administer the fund according to the directions of the Army Council.
§ Colonel SHARMAN-CRAWFORDMay I say that this money has come from the personnel of the Army at present serving, and has not been spent, and many of the officers would like to see some of this money spent on the men serving in the Army at the present time?
§ Mr. J. SAMUELHas this profit been made out of the sale of intoxicating liquors to the soldiers?
§ Mr. FORSTERNo, Sir.
§ Sir CHARLES NICHOLSONIs the hon. Gentleman aware that a considerable sum has been spent under the orders of the Army Council?
§ Colonel SHARMAN - CRAWFORDOnly a very small amount under the orders of the Army Council—about £2,000.