HC Deb 09 February 1926 vol 191 c822
44. Mr. ERSKINE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the large cuts in contemplation in the various departments of the Army, he will simultaneously issue instructions to all commanding officers to exercise economy within their own jurisdiction, and particularly in the direction of mess bills and subscriptions to various objects, which fall particularly heavily on young officers?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

The duty of a commanding officer to ensure economy in his unit, and to protect his officers against unnecessary expense, is already prescribed in King's Regulations; I would refer in particular to paragraphs 83, 1451 and 1476. I have no reason to think that commanding officers fail to carry out their duty in this respect.

Mr. ERSKINE

Can the right hon. Gentleman say why this Regulation is so very ineffective?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

I do not think it is ineffective.

Mr. ERSKINE

Oh, but it is!