67. Mr. J. J. Davidsonasked the Secretary of State for War the total number of men employed as batmen or officers' servants in His Majesty's forces in Great Britain?
§ Sir V. WarrenderAll officers and warrant officers Class I are entitled to a batman, but in some cases a cash allowance in lieu may be drawn. On 1st April, 1937, there were 6,762 officers and 1,038 warrant officers Class I, serving in Great Britain, but I regret that I am not in a position to state how many of these officers and warrant officers actually have a soldier batman.
Mr. DavidsonIs the hon. Baronet aware that many of these men who are serving as batmen and officers' servants have to work long continuous hours and have very little freedom? Further, does he not think we should have an improved type of officer if they cleaned their own equipment and quarters?