HC Deb 04 August 1942 vol 382 cc831-2
15. Major Lyons

asked the Secretary of State for War whether any, and what, investigation is being made on the question of soldiers' pay and/or allowances?

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir Kingsley Wood)

As this question concerns all three Services, and not the Army only, I have been asked to reply.

The Lord Privy Seal has already indicated that the House will be given an opportunity to debate the question of Service pay and allowances after the Recess. In preparation for this Debate, and with a view to removing certain misapprehensions, the Government propose to lay a White Paper containing material relevant thereto.

Major Lyons

Will that White Paper be laid before the House before the coming Recess, and does my right hon. Friend realise the great public feeling which exists now about the insufficiency of pay in the lower ranks of the Army?

Sir K. Wood

In regard to the first part of the question, the White Paper will be laid in good time before the Debate.

Commander Sir Archibald Southby

Will it be laid before the House adjourns?

Sir K. Wood

No, Sir, not before the House adjourns.

Mr. Thorne

Will it be sent through the post?

Sir K. Wood

Yes, Sir.

Forward to