15. Lieutenant-Colonel Sir F. HALLasked the Secretary for War if he is aware that a number of Civil servants have during the War been appointed acting-paymasters, with similar duties and responsibilities to those of commissioned paymasters; that application has been made by such persons for payment of the same service gratuity as is granted to commissioned paymasters under paragraphs 496 and 497 of the Royal Pay Warrant, and that this application has been rejected; and whether, in view of the fact that a number of civilian acting-paymasters have, in the public interest, been refused permission to join the forces while those who hold a commission in this country or abroad have benefited financially, he will reconsider the expediency of maintaining this distinction?
§ Mr. FORSTERI have nothing to add to the reply given to my hon. and learned Friend the Member for Ealing on the 24th March. I will send my hon. Friend a copy of that reply.
§ Mr. D. HERBERTI had a promise made to me that the grievance of these particular servants would be considered. Has that consideration yet been given?
§ Mr. FORSTERI think if my hon. Friend will study the answer to which I have referred he will see that we are considering whether or not it will be possible to give some kind of gratuity to acting-paymasters.