HC Deb 01 March 1938 vol 332 cc910-1
43. Mr. Day

asked the Secretary of State for War what British troops are stationed in China at the present time and how these forces compare with those maintained at the same date the previous year?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

As the answer contains a number of figures, I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. Day

Is it proposed to increase the force in Shanghai?

Mr. H. G. Williams

Does my right hon. Friend recollect the occasion in 1926 when this side was censured by the side opposite for increasing the garrison in Shanghai?

Following is the answer:

the sale of home and Empire products in Army canteens?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

I understand that home and Empire products are indicated as such in the quarterly price lists of the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes and form the great majority of the articles included in those lists. In addition, during the week in which Empire Day has occurred annual displays of home and Empire products have been given in the grocery shops of all institutes, the country of origin of the products being clearly shown in each case.

Mr. Day

Is it found that soldiers prefer to buy goods of Empire origin?

Mr. George Griffiths

Do they not prefer to have home-produced meat?

Mr. De la Bère

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that the products of the Vale of Evesham are put on sale?