35. Sir F. HALLasked the Lord Privy Seal whether the free postage facilities granted to soldiers serving abroad have been withdrawn except in the case of the forces in Mesopotamia; if so, will he state the reasons for this step; and why a distinction is drawn in favour of the Mesopotamian troops as against those serving in Palestine, Silesia, and elsewhere abroad?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYI have been asked to answer this question. The facts are as stated in the question. The reason for the distinction is that troops in Mesopotamia are still regarded by the military authorities as serving under active service conditions.
Sir F. HALLIf they are serving under active service conditions, does my right hon. Friend not think that, in like manner, the men in Silesia and Palestine are serving under active service conditions?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYThat is a point which I am not in a position to determine. I must be guided by the military authorities.
Sir F. HALLHas the right hon. Gentleman been in communication with the Secretary of State for War upon this matter, and, if not, will he communicate as early as possible with the War Office in order that there may be no hardship placed upon soldiers serving in these spheres of, what has been termed, active service?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYI have been in communication with the Secretary of State for War on the subject, and I shall continue to be in communication with him.
Sir F. HALLI beg to give Notice that I shall put the same question to the Secretary of State for War on this day week.