HC Deb 08 December 1925 vol 189 c231
25. Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the allowance of coal both for officers and other ranks of the Army is very inadequate during the winter months; and whether he will take steps to increase this allowance?

Captain KING

Fuel is issued to the troops as required within annual limits fixed by the scales laid down in regulations. These scales have been found generally adequate, and there is power under the regulations to increase them in exceptional cases. Certain minor adjustments, mainly of personal issues to officers and others, are under consideration.

Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTE

Is my hon. and gallant Friend aware that in some cases officers' messes have to spend over £100 during the winter on the purchase of fuel, and also that the men have to buy fuel in order to keep their barrack rooms reasonably warm?

Captain KING

I do not think that that affects my answer.