HC Deb 05 August 1919 vol 119 cc160-1
37. Colonel YATE

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he will state why officers of the Indian Army appointed to command brigades or divisions in France have not been paid at Indian rates the same as in other theatres of war; and will he have the money deducted from the pay of those officers refunded?

Mr. FORSTER

I think my hon. and gallant Friend is under some misappre- hension. Indian Army officers appointed to the staff of British formations have no claim to draw Indian staff rates whether in France or elsewhere. They draw British rates with the option of the pay of their last Indian appointment if more advantageous.

Colonel YATE

If an officer in France is ordered to take command of a brigade, why should his pay be stopped?

Mr. FORSTER

When the officer takes over an appointment in the British formation, he draws British rates of pay.

Colonel YATE

What is the reason? He comes from India and is guaranteed Indian rates of pay; he is ordered to do certain duty, and he does it, and he is under his original guarantee.

Mr. FORSTER

I would point out that in the last part of my answer I say that they have the option of the pay of their last Indian appointment if it is more advantageous to them.