HC Deb 25 July 1939 vol 350 cc1225-6
20. Miss Ward

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will give an assurance that married militiamen separated from their wives but making a regular allowance, will be entitled to receive appropriate allowances under the regulations?

The Secretary of State for War (Mr. Hore-Belisha)

Any claim of this kind will be referred to the Military Service (Special Allowances) Advisory Committee and will be dealt with as the committee recommend.

Miss Ward

Am I to take it from that answer that there is nothing to prohibit a married militiaman separated from his wife drawing an allowance?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Yes, Sir, my hon. Friend may so assume.

Miss Ward

Is my right hon. Friend aware that it has been stated by certain commanding officers that an instruction was issued by the War Office that no such allowances were to be paid and that I am very glad to have my right hon. Friend's assurance?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

I think that my statement is more authoritative.

Mr. Thorne

Would a widowed mother who has had sons who were her chief support called up under the Military Training Act be entitled to make an application for assistance?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Certainly.