HC Deb 06 May 1941 vol 371 cc670-1
3. Colonel Arthur Evans

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact an officer's uniform and personal equipment is a question of military necessity and that the sum of £30 was fixed by the War Office as being adequate to cover the cash outlay required before the Purchase Tax was instituted, he will withdraw the outfit allowance made on first appointment and substitute an authority in favour of approved military tailors to issue and supply all the kit and equipment necessary against subsequent payment by the War Office or the Treasury?

The Secretary of State for War (Captain Margesson)

I am afraid that I cannot accept my hon. and gallant Friend's proposal, which would give rise to various difficulties in practice.

Colonel Evans

In view of the fact that this amount of £30 was arrived at by the War Office after consultation with the various tailoring interests in the country, and before the imposition of the Purchase Tax, is my right hon. and gallant Friend now entirely satisfied that this amount adequately covers the cost of the uniform and equipment an officer requires when granted a commission, particularly in the case of an officer who is entirely without private means?

Captain Margesson

Of course, I am fully aware that the imposition of the Purchase Tax does throw a burden on officers, but it has been explained in this House, not only by the Financial Secretary to the War Office, but also by the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, that officers, like all other people, should bear their share of the burden.

Captain Anstruther-Gray

Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that the line his Department is taking over this matter is making it very difficult for men without private means to take commissions, and is it his policy to encourage suitable men without private means to take commissions or to discourage them?

Captain Margesson

Certainly I do not want to discourage anyone who is fitted for a commission.

Colonel Evans

I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment on the third Sitting Day.