HC Deb 02 November 1930 vol 134 cc182-3
30. Mr. RENDALL

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he has the power, as Secretary of State for Air or as Secretary of State for War, to deduct debts alleged to be due by soldiers from their war gratuities?

13. Mr. TREVELYAN THOMSON

asked the Secretary of State for War if any deduction may be made from the amount due to a soldier or airman on discharge as war gratuity on account of any debt incurred during service in the field?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The war gratuity of soldiers is not attachable for debt other than one arising from deficiencies in articles of equipment specified on the dispersal certificate. In the case of airmen, deductions are made in very exceptional uses. The Royal Warrant provides that the war gratuity granted to an airman may be held liable to meet any public claim that may be outstanding against him, any Service debt that may be due from him, and any Service claim that the Air Council may direct him to pay. In ordinary cases, however, this liability is not enforced.

Mr. RENDALL

Why is a difference made between airmen and ordinary soldiers?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I should like to investigate that point.

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