§ 25. Mr. R. McNEILLasked the Under secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction caused in Dover by the want of a wet canteen for the Army Pay Corps, numbering some 500 men, who to a large extent monopolise the supplies of liquid refreshment available at inns like the "Diamond," with the result that sailors from coal boats and mine-sweepers and others of the general public are unable to obtain what they require; and whether he will take steps to establish a wet canteen at Dover for the Army Pay Corps?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONThe establishment of a wet canteen for any unit is a matter within the discretion of the commanding officer. In this instance the men are billeted in various parts of the town instead of living in barracks or hutments, and it was considered inexpedient to open a wet canteen. The attention of the commanding officer has been called to the fact that beer which should be available for civilian requirements is being consumed by the military, and steps have already been taken for the establishment of a wet canteen.