71. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been drawn to the inadequate provision for private soldiers proceeding to and returning from the East; and what steps he is taking to ensure that in future adequate provision is made?
§ The Financial Secretary to the War Office (Sir Victor Warrender)I assume that my hon. Friend refers to the provision of accommodation on transports. During the 1937–38 trooping season the numbers of troops carried in the older transports were reduced by about 13 per cent. in order to give the men as much troop deck space as that provided in the two new transports "Dilwara" and "Dunera." Two further transports are under construction, one of which will be taken into commission during next trooping season. A number of improvements is being embodied in these new ships, including the provision of a writing and
§ Following is the statement:
§ reading room for the troops, and an improved system of ventilation on the troop decks.
Mr. De la BèreIs the hon. Gentleman aware that these improvements are the best aid to recruitment that this country could have?
§ Sir Francis FremantleIs provision being made for improved accommodation for the sick?