11. Mr. Astorasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will institute an expert inquiry into the modernisation of the methods used in the Army Pay Department?
§ Sir J. GriggThe Royal Army Pay Corps has handled a very difficult problem with conspicuous success. The system governing the work of the Corps was the subject of an expert inquiry two years ago which reported to the Standing Committee on Army Administration that it is as expeditious and fool-proof as is possible in war time conditions. The system has since continued to be the object of constant study, and improvements in the way of modernisation of processes, including the utilisation of mechanical side, are introduced whenever their value is proved. I do not think there is any need for such an inquiry as is proposed by my hon. Friend.
Mr. AstorIs the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that all the most modern business machines and appliances are available to the Corps, on whom I make no reflection?
§ Sir J. Grigg"All" is rather a great deal to ask, but I am satisfied that a great many modern aids are adopted, and adopted with reasonable promptitude.