HC Deb 24 March 1936 vol 310 c1033
21. Mr. THURTLE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether Army chaplains are paid on a basis of capitation grants or otherwise?

Mr. COOPER

Chaplains to the Forces receive pay and allowances as officers of the Army. Civilian officiating chaplains are normally paid at capitation rates.

Mr. THURTLE

Is not the system of payment an inducement to them to compel as many soldiers as possible to attend church parade?

Mr. COOPER

I am sure that they have other and far stronger inducements than that.

Mr. SORENSEN

Will the right hon. Gentleman say what the inducements are?

Mr. THURTLE

Do I understand that the right hon. Gentleman has a very high opinion of the clergy?

Mr. COOPER

Yes, Sir.