§ 29. Mr. A. SHORTTasked the Secretary of State for War whether, when a decision 1840 has been arrived at respecting the administration and application of the Army Canteen Funds, an opportunity will be afforded the House of discussing his proposals?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThis question is still under consideration. I cannot think that a special day for its discussion apart from the ordinary opportunities of Army business is required.
Sir F. HALLIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the fact that amongst the soldiers, who have contributed an enormous amount, there is a general desire that, at all events, the House should decide what should be done instead of being left entirely to the officials of the Department?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLQuestions relating to the time of the House should not be addressed to me. As far as I am concerned, I do not know of anything which prevents this matter being dealt with on the Army Estimates in the ordinary way.
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI am collecting information from every source available.
§ Mr. SHORTAre we to understand that this source of the rank and file is open apart from the commanding officers?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLYes, Sir. I hope to be able to make a general proposal in regard to these matters that will commend itself to the House.
§ Mr. SHORTCan the right hon. Gentleman suggest the attitude which he proposes to employ to secure the opinion of the rank and file?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLNo, Sir; certainly not.