§ 47. Mr. HOUSTONasked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the question of raising the gratuity for British troops who served overseas to the Colonial standard, making same payable in War Bonds redeemable in 10 years or such period as the financial position of the country may permit?
§ Mr. SHORTTThe resources of this country differ very materially from those in the Dominions. This matter has 1701 received most careful and sympathetic consideration, but it is not possible to adopt the Hon. Member's proposal.
§ Mr. HOUSTONDoes not my right hon. Friend realise that to adopt the suggestion contained in the question would do much to remove discontent, and would inspire efforts in the direction of improving the financial position of the country; and does he observe in the question that I do not propose it should be made payable until after ten years or until the financial condition is such that we can afford it?
§ Mr. SHORTTYes, I observed the whole question.