§ 10 and 11. Lieut.-Colonel POWNALLasked the Secretary of State, for War (1) whether, although the Corps of Military Accountants is now responsible for the preparation of appropriation accounts, the Accounting Departments, on which this work formerly fell, are now, instead of being reduced in strength, actually more largely staffed than was the case when they did this work; what is the explanation of this increase;
(2) whether the creation of the Corps of Military Accountants has led to a considerable duplication of work by its representatives in commands to that already done by command paymasters?
§ Sir R. SANDERSThe strength of the Pay Department is being rapidly and continuously reduced, but, as my hon. and gallant Friend will see from the totals of Army Estimates, the volume of cash expenditure to be handled is still largely in excess of that of 1914. I am enquiring into the work of the Corps of Military Accountants with a view of eliminating any unnecessary or duplicate work.
§ 12. Lieut.-Colonel POWNALLasked the Secretary of State for War whether representatives of the Corps of Military Accountants are being still attached to fighting units such as brigades of cavalry, regiments of cavalry, etc.; whether it is found that their attachment leads to economies being effected; and, if so, in what direction?
§ Sir R. SANDERSYes, Sir. The cost accounts of fighting units are prepared by military accountant personnel attached to the units. I am informed that direct economies have been effected in certain directions, such as the closing of regimental workshops which were not paying their way, and in the supply of consumable stores. I am enquiring into the possibility of effecting economies in such parts of the accountancy as, are less likely to prove of value.