HC Deb 08 March 1938 vol 332 cc1686-7
3. Brigadier-General Makins

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the personnel of mounted units which have been mechanised feel it a hardship that they are being deprived of most of their horses; and whether he proposes to afford such personnel any opportunity of purchasing Army horses rendered surplus by mechanisation?

8. Sir Waldron Smithers

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the personnel of mounted units which have been mechanised feel it a hardship that they are being deprived of most of their horses and forage allowance; and whether he proposes to afford such personnel any opportunity of purchasing Army horses rendered surplus by mechanisation?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Yes, Sir. It is proposed, in the special circumstances, to give such personnel an opportunity to buy surplus Army horses at Government auction sales.

Mr. Ede

Does that include the troopers, or does it apply only to the officers?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

To both.

Mr. Ede

Will they be allowed to pay for them on the instalment plan?

Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

Will they be at a reduced price?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

They are sold by auction, and it will be at the auction price, therefore.

Sir T. Moore

That is not a concession.