§ 29. Mr. Bellengerasked the Secretary of State for War how many cases involving the consideration of soldiers' debtor balances arising through overissue of cash have been dealt with since Army Council Instruction 368 was published on 18th February, 1942, and the total sum written off due to causes outside the soldier's own control; and whether he has any statement to make as to the working of this procedure?
§ Sir J. GriggI have no precise information as to the number of cases or the total sum written off, as separate records of cases dealt with under this Army Council Instruction have not been kept. From the general reports received on the procedure introduced as an experiment by this Army Council Instruction, it is clear that it has effected considerable improvement and is working smoothly. A considerable number of soldiers has been relieved of the effect of charges due to causes outside their own control. The new procedure is being continued.
§ Mr. BellengerAs the Army Council itself issued these Instructions and, therefore, should have reports as to how the experiment is proceeding, will the Minister give instructions that the number of cases dealt with and the total amount of public money involved shall be available both to himself and to Members?
§ Sir J. GriggI do not think that would be in keeping with the policy of decentralisation which the Array Council has adopted during the last 18 months.