§ 35 Sir A. Knoxasked the Secretary of State for War how many soldiers on the 2892 unauthorised married establishment are now serving at home; what is the average sum these men receive weekly; and what rent they are actually compelled to pay?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaThere is no unauthorised married establishment. The number of soldiers under 26 years of age serving at home and known to be married was under 3,500 on 1st April last. Their emoluments varied, of course, according to their rank and qualifications. They were all entitled to accommodation and subsistence for themselves. I am not in a position to answer the last part of the question.
§ Sir A. KnoxAre we to understand that these 3,000 young soldiers have no accommodation for their wives?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaThe hon. and gallant Member knows that from the question he has put.
§ Sir A. KnoxSurely it would be better not to accept these young married men in view of the terrible conditions under which they are living, some of them being without sufficient food?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaThese young men, for the most part, have married since they joined the Army.
§ Mr. Godfrey NicholsonIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the scandalous conditions under which these men's wives live? Is he aware of the level which the scandal has reached around Aldershot, where they have to pay the most exorbitant rents?