HC Deb 12 November 1917 vol 99 cc32-3
59. Mr. BILLING

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government are interested, financially or otherwise, in the formation and/or organisation of the movement known as the "Comrades of the Great War"; and whether he is prepared to state that the Government have no intention of utilising this organisation for any direct or indirect political purpose?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative, and to the second in the affirmative.

Mr. HOGGE

Has the right hon. Gentleman's attention been called to a statement in the " Times " this morning, which says that members of the forces in the field can become honorary members of the Comrades of the Great War; whether that is a fact or not; and, if it is a fact, will members of the forces in the field be entitled to become members of other organisations in this country?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have not seen it.

Mr. HOGGE

I will put the question down.

61. Mr. BILLING

asked the Prime Minister whether, having regard to the fact that the rate of pay of naval and military officers is based on the purchasing power of a sovereign being 20s., and having regard to the fact that the purchasing power of a sovereign is now approximately 11s., he will review the whole question of officers' pay and allowances?

Mr. BONAR LAW

As already stated in the Prime Minister's letter to the Press of the 29th September, the question of the pay and allowances of the junior ranks of commissioned officers is receiving the attention of a Cabinet Committee, and a decision will be come to as soon as possible.