§ 11. Mr. Mathersasked the Secretary of State for War why soldiers who have not been issued with Army gloves and greatcoats are being compelled to refrain from the use of their own and punished for wearing them; and whether he will cause commanding officers to allow the use of civilian supplies until Army issues are made available?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaThe answer to the first part of the question is that I am not aware of any such cases; and, to the second part, that not only is the use of civilian coats permitted, but a monetary allowance is made for their use.
§ Mr. MathersThe right hon. Gentleman asks for details of these cases. Will he accept the details without the name of my informant, provided that he is able to identify where these irregularities—as I consider them to be—take place?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaOnly too readily; but they were not identifiable from the question.
§ 13. Commander Locker-Lampsonasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will ensure that all troops serving at the front in winter are equipped with india-rubber boots, in order that they may be adequately protected against mud and damp?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaAn adequate supply of these boots is available.