§ 19. Mr. G. TERRELLasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to the inconvenience, and in many cases privations, 1588 which soldiers returning from France on temporary release for munitions work are put to by reason of their inability to obtain advances of cash when their pay books are in credit from the Government moneychangers' office at the arrival stations; and whether he will cause such modifications of the Regulations to be made as will enable the pay clerks to make prompt advances of cash in all proper cases?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. Forster)Arrangements have been in force for some time which enable a soldier to get a small advance of cash on arrival in London, though not from the exchange office. A man released for munitions work can obtain a larger advance on applying to his paymaster, and the balance due to him is paid when he has taken up civil employment.
§ Mr. TERRELLDo I understand that these advances can be obtained immediately, and is the hon. Gentleman aware that the men are arriving without a penny in their pockets and have to go to the North of England?
§ Mr. FORSTERI have had no complaints on this score. We have made arrangements to enable small advances to be made at once.
§ Mr. TERRELLIs the hon. Gentleman aware that these men have no opportunity of making public complaints? They arrive at the stations and they have no one to apply to.
§ Mr. FORSTERPerhaps my hon. Friend will discuss the matter with me personally afterwards. I am most anxious to do everything I can to prevent hardships.