HC Deb 21 March 1918 vol 104 cc1162-3
63. Mr. BILLING

asked whether it is necessary for the Minister of State for Air to apply to the Treasury before making a special Grant to all officers in His Majesty's Air Force to cover the initial cost of the new Air Force uniform now to be instituted; if so, if such application has already been made; and whether the Treasury have considered or are prepared to favourably consider it?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE to the AIR MINISTRY (Major Baird)

The answer to the first and second parts of the question is in the affirmative, and the application is now under consideration by the Treasury.

Mr. BILLING

When is it likely to be announced, having regard to the fact that many of these officers have been called on to buy their uniforms, and it is essential to their financial status that they should know whether they are to be called on to pay for it or not?

Major BAIRD

Nobody has to buy the uniform? It is distinctly stated that they can wear out the old uniform.

Mr. BILLING

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the present Order has created a chameleon-like condition among these officers?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member must not monopolise the whole of the time of the House.