§ 52. Mr. HOGGEasked the Prime Minister whether the arbitration between the War Office and the National Relief Fund has yet been concluded; and, if so, what amount has been agreed upon?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe arbitration has not been concluded.
§ Mr. FORSTERI do not know.
§ Mr. HOGGEI will raise the question oh the Adjournment to-night unless it is concluded. Is the hon. Gentleman aware that £2,500,000 of money which belongs to the fund and which was raised for certain purposes is at the present moment in the hands of the War Office and, until this matter is determined, cannot be devoted to those purposes?
§ Mr. FORSTERMy hon. Friend must see that when a mattes is referred to arbitration it must be left to the arbitrator. The arbitrator is not under the control of the War Office, and it would be most improper if he were.