HC Deb 10 November 1936 vol 317 cc675-6
22. Sir MALCOLM BARCLAYHARVEY

asked the Secretary of State for War why the men of the division recently sent to Palestine from Aldershot were charged 8s. each for a compulsory issue of tropical helmets?

Mr. COOPER

The helmet is part of the tropical kit with which the soldier proceeding abroad has to equip himself, and the clothing allowance which he receives contains an element to cover this. On account of the abnormal circumstances of their despatch abroad, however, I have given instructions that troops sent out as emergency reinforcements who are brought back to the United Kingdom within 12 months shall receive a refund of part of the cost of their tropical helmets.

Mr. RADFORD

What is the reason for our men having to pay anything for their kit?

Mr. COOPER

They are given a special allowance which is intended to cover it.

Sir A. M. SAMUEL

Is it a wise policy, in order to save a few hundred pounds, to create these irritating regulations?

Sir J. NALL

Is the clothing allowance to which my right hon. Friend refers the ordinary allowance for home service, or a special allowance for overseas service?

Mr. COOPER

It was a special kit allowance which was intended to cover overseas service.