§ 35. Sir KENYON VAUGHAN-MORGANasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the present rates of pay and allowances granted to the British staff employed by the Imperial War Graves Commission in Northern France and Belgium are below the rates prevailing five years ago; that the cost of living in these countries has substantially increased in recent years, and that some of the necessaries of life have doubled in price; and whether, in the circumstances, he will cause full inquiry to be made with a view to more satisfactory rates of pay and conditions of service being fixed?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. T. Shaw)The only general reduction that has taken place during the last five years has been in respect of special allowances, which were intended to meet the altogether exceptional conditions of living in Northern France and Belgium which prevailed for some time after the War. The Commission are aware of the recent rise in the cost of living, as shown by the figures published by the French and Belgian Governments, but I am in formed that, in spite of the rise that has taken place, the cost of living in Northern France and Belgium is still appreciably lower than at home. I will bring the hon. and gallant Member's question to the notice of my colleagues on the Commission.
§ Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEIs it not a fact that the workers employed by the Imperial War Graves Commission in Northern France and Belgium are well treated and very well satisfied?
§ Mr. SHAWI believe the workers are treated tolerably decently, though I am always willing to bring before the Com mission any representation that is made. I may also say the work done by these men is beyond all praise.