§ 15. Captain BOURNE (for Mr. SMITHERS)asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that Royal Naval officers serving in the Royal Australian Navy have had their pay appreciably reduced by a so-called special Income Tax; and whether, in view of the terms of the contract under which these officers volunteered for service in the Royal Australian Navy, any steps are being taken to compensate these officers for the loss sustained by them?
Mr. ALEXANDERThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The Admiralty are in communication with the Australian authorities on the subject. I regret that the Admiralty cannot accept the responsibility of compensation.
§ Captain BOURNEWhen will the right hon. Gentleman be in a position to make a statement as the result of his communication?
Mr. ALEXANDERIt is difficult to say. I think the best way would be to put down a question in, perhaps, a fortnight's time, but I cannot promise now that an answer will then be available.