HC Deb 30 May 1916 vol 82 c2552
14. Mr. HINDS

asked the Under Secretary of State for War whether the Young Men's Christian Association and other similar societies which provide institutions and huts in camps for the sale of refreshments, etc., to soldiers are required to surrender 10 per cent. of their takings; and, seeing that the effect of such a regulation, if enforced, will be to close down many of the institutions, will he say what action he proposes to take?

Mr. TENNANT

My hon. Friend is under a misapprehension. At the end of last year it was decided that, owing to the special conditions of the time, the payment of the 10 per cent. rebate by the Y.M.C.A. and other philanthropic bodies should remain in abeyance during the War, and this arrangement is still in force.

Mr. MALCOLM

If contractors are at a camp, do they still have to refund the 10 per cent.?

Mr. TENNANT

Yes, Sir, ordinary contractors do.