§ 39. Mr. W. THORNEasked the Prime Minister if he is aware that a number of the branches of the National Federation of Discharged and Demobilised Sailors and Soldiers have carefully considered the reply to the deputation on 6th February, and record with dissatisfaction the result, and are of opinion that the discontent still existing can only be remedied by the prompt action of all branches in pressing their claim with greater determination: that they declare their firm intention of having nothing to do with the new Territorial Force; and will in no way support a Government unwilling to meet its obligations and which has failed to fulfil its pledges; and if he will take action in the matter?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI am aware that resolutions expressing the views set out in the question have been adopted by some branches of the Federation, but I am reluctant to believe that members of the Federation will not join with other ex-Service men in giving support to the Territorial Force
§ Mr. HOGGEIs my right hon. Friend aware that the Federation of Discharged Sailors and Soldiers met the Prime Minister, and the Prime Minister admitted the justice of their claims, but said that the nation could not afford them, and in view of the fact that the nation cannot afford to discharge their debts to the discharged men, will the Government abrogate the interest that is paid on the money lent to the State for the War while these men are unrewarded for the services they rendered?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI am aware that the Prime Minister met the body referred to, but I do not accept the hon. Member's account of it as a correct statement of what he said. He did recognise the justice of the claims of these men, but I think the House will feel, as the Government does, that we have done everything in our power to meet them.
§ Mr. HOGGEDoes the right hon. Gentleman say that the Prime Minister did not say that the only reason he could not meet them was that the nation could not afford it?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI cannot remember the exact words used by the Prime Min- 29 ister, but I am convinced that in substance he said what I stated just now.