§ 20. Major NEWMANasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the hardship imposed on young officers who, on obtaining a commission, are obliged to expend a substantial sum of money in purchasing uniform and 2065 equipment suitable for this country or France, and are subsequently sent on draft to one of the Eastern Fronts and are obliged to again purchase the uniform and equipment suitable for Eastern campaigning; and whether any action is to be taken in the matter?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. Forster)An extra outfit grant is given towards the cost of semi-tropical kit needed on certain Eastern Fronts.
§ Major NEWMANHow much is the grant?
§ Mr. FORSTERI think, so far as my memory serves me, it is £5 10s,
§ Major NEWMANDoes it not amount to £6 10s.?
§ Mr. FORSTERI have just said that, so far as my memory serves me, it is £5 10s.
§ Mr. PEMBERTON BILLINGCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether he is prepared to consider a second grant to officers after serving three years?
§ Mr. FORSTERThat was considered by the Cabinet Committee who dealt with the officers' pay, and it was decided that the increase given in the pay should cover the cost of uniform.