§ 3. Mr. LOUIS SMITHasked the Secretary of State for War the average cost per head of clothing the personnel of the Army in 1913–14 and 1930–31, respectively?
§ Mr. SHAWHaving regard to such disturbing factors as the differences in the uniform of various ranks and branches, the preparation of an accurate comparison in the form suggested would involve undue labour. But in the typical case of a private of the infantry of the line, other than a recruit, the figures are, for 1913 £7 12s. and for 1930 £9 3s. 4d. These figures were published in the Parliamentary Estimates for the years in question on pages 65 and 143, respectively, where the hon. Member will find much additional information. But he will, no doubt, bear in mind that the authorised scales of clothing have been considerably altered since 1913, notably by the withdrawal of full dress.