HC Deb 02 March 1916 vol 80 cc1176-7
47. Mr. THOMAS

asked the Prime Minister whether he will make an authoritative announcement on the subject of the calling up for service of married men; whether the Government are taking steps to introduce legislation with a view to relieving these men from the pecuniary obligations for which they would still be liable when called to the Colours; and whether he can give an assurance before the married men are called up that the Government will consider the whole question of hardship that is likely to arise?

52. Mr. NIELD

asked the Prime Minister if he is aware that a widespread feeling of alarm exists among many married men who have attested under the Derby scheme as to the total insufficiency of the separation allowances to meet payments of rent, rates, taxes, and insurance premiums and for provision for the maintenance of wife and children; and whether, having regard to the substantial incomes, especially in the case of professional men, which will be lost by reason of military service, he will consider the necessity for and make additional provision in such cases where serious loss is proved to have been sustained?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

This matter is engaging the careful attention of the Government, and a statement as to the civil obligations of married men called to the Colours will be made as soon as possible.

Mr. THOMAS

Will the right hon. Gentleman say that before any of the married groups are called up this question will be settled and proposals made?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I do not think it is possible to give an undertaking of that kind, but I understand that the question will be settled quite soon.

57. Major NEWMAN

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware that many married men whose groups may shortly be called up have purchased and are paying for their houses by means of periodical instalments combining payment of interest and repayment of the capital sum, and extending over a period of more than ten years; whether the Government have considered the position of these men in the event of their not being able to continue such periodical repayment of the capital sum; and whether, having regard to the consequences which might be entailed to building and other societies in the event of such repayments ceasing under any extension of the Increase of Rent and Mortgage Interest (War Restrictions) Act, 1916, he will say what action the Government intend to take?

Mr. LONG

Although I have no official information on the subject, there may, no doubt, be cases of the kind referred to. In the event of any proposal being made to extend the Act in question, the point mentioned by my hon. Friend would be borne in mind.