HC Deb 18 July 1939 vol 350 c157
11. Ede

asked the Secretary of State for War what particular action he has taken to ensure that undue expense shall not fall on regimental officers?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

There are standing instructions in the regulations on the subject of the limitation of contributions and subscriptions, and economy in messing and entertainment and other matters, to which the attention of all commanding officers is directed.

Mr. Ede

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I put in the word "particular" because I am aware of these general instructions; has he taken any steps recently, in view of the expansion of the Army, to make it quite clear that these expenses are strictly limited; and are General Officers Commanding being given any instructions to give their particular attention to this matter?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

No, Sir, no particular instruction has been issued, but, as the hon. Gentleman is aware, there are several references to this matter in King's Regulations, and I have not taken any special steps

Mr. Ede

In view of the expansion of the Army and the declared desire of the right hon. Gentleman to make sure that the officerships of the Army shall be open to all classes, will he consider drawing particular attention to those regulations and ask General Officers Commanding to see that they are enforced?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

I think the views of the Army Council are well known on the subject, and I will consider whether any thing more is necessary, and, if so, what can be done.

Mr. Robert Gibson

Is it not usual in times of emergency for particular attention to be paid to matters of economy, especially on the part of officers?