HC Deb 01 March 1916 vol 80 cc1057-8
16. Mr. ANDERSON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he has received a petition from the magistrates of Berwick asking the Government to retain a portion of the separation allowance of soldiers' wives; whether the magistrates invited the support of the clergy in this enterprise; and whether any answer has been returned on behalf of the Government, and, if so, what answer?

Mr. FORSTER

I do not trace the receipt of the petition in question, but I should not be prepared to withhold compulsorily any portion of these allowances; while for voluntarily saving the War Savings Certificate scheme seems to meet the requirements admirably. Any influence which the clergy or other benevolent persons can bring to bear in furtherance of this good object would be well bestowed.