HC Deb 06 August 1940 vol 364 cc23-4
30. Mr. Leach

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that new recruits who have forfeited lucrative jobs and now find themselves unable to afford cigarettes and tobacco, postage and other amenities, while observing their prototypes in civil life are not similarly deprived, cannot be expected to maintain the spirit of contentment necessary for the preservation of the highest morale, and if he will reconsider the question of issuing a ration of tobacco or cigarettes coupled with some concession in postage rates?

75. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has now any statement to make respecting free or cheaper supplies of tobacco and cigarettes for the troops; whether he will abolish or reduce the charge to soldiers for breaking crockery and also for haircutting; and whether he will consider reducing the amount of stoppages during the period of the war?

Mr. Eden

As regards cigarettes, tobacco and postage, I am unable at present to add to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer to my hon. Friends the Members for Seaham (Mr. Shinwell) and West Leyton (Mr. Sorensen) on 30th July. The soldier as a result of a decision recently taken now receives an allowance to cover hair cutting, and breakages of crockery not caused wilfully or through neglect of reasonable precautions are made good within limits at the public expense. As regards other charges, commanding officers are instructed to keep them under review and to eliminate any expense to the soldier that is unnecessary.

Mr. Leach

Does not the right hon. Gentleman realise that there is a sense of injustice in this matter on the part of the soldier, and, if so, what steps can he possibly take to remedy it?

Mr. Eden

We have taken steps. This special allowance was issued on 3rd July.

Mr. Sorensen

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that in numerous cases the soldier finds deducted from his small pay 2s. or 2s. 6d., and that in these circumstances he has little left to spend on small requirements?

Mr. Eden

I think the hon. Member generalises too widely. Special arrangements are made. They have been in force only for a month, and we must see how they work.

Mr. Denville

If the Treasury will give the right hon. Gentleman the money, will he give the soldiers the cigarettes?