§ 109. Sir JOHN BUTCHERasked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether his attention has been called to the fact that the British West India Regiment recently took a distinguished part in the successful operations in Palestine; whether the British West India Regiment is to be regarded as an Imperial unit; whether the non-commissioned officers 2885 and men of this regiment are permitted to enjoy the increase of, pay granted to other Imperial units under Army Order 1, of 1918, and, if not, what is the reason for this; whether the increase of pay is granted to coloured men joining English regiments; and, if so, why there should be any differentiation against the non-commissioned officers and men of the British West India Regiment?
§ Mr. FORSTERI am, of course, aware of and fully appreciate the services rendered by the British West Indies Regiment. The non-commissioned officers and men have received the benefit of the, accelerated grant of proficiency pay and relief from hospital stoppages, but they are not eligible for the further concessions which have been made in strict accordance with the decision of the Government.
§ Sir J. BUTCHERWhy are they not entitled to the benefits under Army Order No. 1? Mr. FORSTER: That Order refers to regiments with their depots in the United Kingdom.