§ 28. Mr. Isaacsasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the complaints regarding the food supplied to the Thirtieth Surrey Anti-Aircraft Search light Battalion, Royal Engineers, during their training at war stations in Sussex and Hampshire; that Japanese tinned salmon and tinned tomatoes from Italy were supplied; that at first no fresh milk was available but, as a result of complaints, eventually it was supplied at the rate of one and a half pints per day for 10 men; and whether he is prepared to make close inquiry into this matter?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaFish, tomatoes and milk are purchased by units at their discretion from their cash allowance. I am informed that, in the case of this unit: No Japanese salmon whatever was supplied. Some Italian tomatoes were bought there being a shortage of other suitable brands. Fresh milk was supplied as soon as it was asked for, and was not restricted to one and a half pints a day for 10 men.
§ Mr. IsaacsIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that similar complaints have been made by units stationed at Weston and also by units in Bradford, who complain that they are getting foreign rations, and that they have to pay 10s. a week out of their pay to make up the rations? Will he refund the men this money?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaI really think that the hon. Member is under a misapprehension. I can say from my own know ledge, having visited a number of these camps, that far from there being any complaints of a serious character, the men express the utmost content and good spirit.