§ 27. Mr. PIELOUasked the Secretary of State for War why, on the disbandment of the Corps of Military Accountants, men enlisted on a 21 years' engagement are being discharged with 28 days' leave with pay and the equivalent of seven days' pay for each unexpired year of service?
§ Captain KINGMen of the Corps of Military Accountants serving on a 21 years' engagement are granted a pension, on being discharged on reduction, if they have 14 years' total service and 10 years' qualifying service. Those who have less than 14 years' service receive compensa- 2023 tion on the same lines as men whose engagement is for seven years or 12 years with the colours.
§ Mr. PIELOUDoes the hon. and gallant Gentleman consider it a breach of contract, in view of the fact that these men were enlisted on a 21 years' engagement?
§ Captain KINGNo man signs on in his original engagement for 21 years. Men sign on for seven years with the colours and five with the Reserve, and I would draw my hon. Friend's attention to the fact that the engagement of every soldier on attestation states that it is subject to his services being required for the full term.
§ Mr. PIELOUHas the hon. and gallant Gentleman observed the answer given by the Secretary of State for War in the last Government, stating that the amalgamation of the Royal Army Pay Corps and the Corps of Military Accountants would take place on the recommendation of the Lawrence Committee?
§ Captain KINGI do not follow the question. I have not knowledge of the answers given by members of the late Government.