§ 66. Mr. ATKEYasked the Secretary of State for War whether in view of the fact that the Volunteers have had to provide their own boots for military purposes, they are now likely to purchase second hand Army boots at 25s. per pair, when, as reported in the "Times" of the 4th July, at a sale of Army boots in Mincing Lane the bidding averaged 5s. a pair; and whether, in view of the service rendered by the Volunteers, he will consider the possibility of giving them these boots along with their uniform?
§ Mr. FORSTERThere is no comparison between the condition of the salvaged boots disposed of as surplus and the boots offered for sale to the Volunteers, the latter being practically new.
§ Mr. ATKEYCan an undertaking be given that when these boots become surplus to Army requirements they will be offered to the Volunteers before they are disposed of by public auction?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe price is a fair price.
§ Mr. FORSTERI cannot without notice.
Lieut.-Colonel THORNEWill the right hon. Gentleman say what profit is being made upon each pair of boots?
§ Mr. FORSTERI cannot without notice. Perhaps the hon. Member will put down a question on the subject.