HC Deb 24 October 1916 vol 86 cc933-4
31. Colonel HOPE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the increased cost of living is pressing very hardly on married captains and subalterns appointed for the period of the War, and especially on those promoted from the ranks; and whether he is considering the practicability of granting some allowance to these officers in order that they may be able to support their families in reasonable comfort, and also to meet their necessary expenses as officers?

Mr. FORSTER

The cases of officers holding temporary commissions can be dealt with by the Civil Liabilities Committee. I am considering whether any analogous arrangements can be made for officers of the Regular Army.

Colonel HOPE

Does not the Civil Scheme only cover the cases of those concerned before they joined the Army and not to the case of those where expenses have been incurred owing to the increased cost of living?

Mr. FORSTER

I think they have the power to deal with cases of officers who have joined the Army with temporary commissions since the War began, but have no power, I understand, to deal with cases of officers of the old Regular Army. I am seeing whether I cannot work out some scheme which will give the Regular officers the same advantages as the officers with temporary commissions.

Mr. HOGGE

Will the scheme also include the Reservists who at the present time are excluded?

Mr. FORSTER

I will take that into consideration.

Mr. WING

Can the same considerations be made to apply to the ordinary soldier?

Mr. OUTHWAITE

Would it not be possible to raise the pay of the subaltern instead of his having to go before this Commission to plead for a further allowance?

Mr. FORSTER

I do not think that arises.