HC Deb 08 March 1923 vol 161 cc716-7
68. Sir R. HUTCHISON

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he can say what is the. objection Io paying British soldiers on the Rhine in sterling?

Mr. BALDWIN

To pay troops stationed abroad in sterling is not only contrary to the established practice, but quite unnecessary from the point of view of the men whose expenditure is in local currency. The reason for the rule is that otherwise our notes would pass in large numbers into circulation in the occupied territory. I am not willing to increase the volume of our currency for any such purpose, more particularly when local currency is provided by the German Government.

Sir R. HUTCHISON

Is it quite fair that officers of the Army should be paid in sterling and the men paid in marks?

Captain A. EVANS

When the private soldier enlisted, was it not understood that ho would he paid in sterling in whatever part of the globe he happened to be serving?

Sir R. HUTCHISON

May I ask for a reply.

Mr. SPEAKER

The Minister uses his discretion in the matter.

Sir R. HUTCHISON

In view of the unsatisfactory reply—

Mr. SPEAKER

I have called upon the next Question.