33. Mr. L. WILLIAMSasked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether he is aware that in the early days of the War the price paid for billeting soldiers at Carmarthen was £1 3s. 7½d. per week; that it is now 19s. 3d. for the first soldier and 17s. 6d. for each additional soldier; and whether, having regard to the increase in the price of food, he will consider the advisability of reviewing these prices?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Mr. Forster)The rate first mentioned by the hon. Member was admittedly too high, and was reduced in August, 1915. The reduced rate was increased in December, 1916, to the figures mentioned, which allowed for a further 301 rise in prices. The question whether any further increase is now necessary is under consideration.