§ 58. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Mooreasked the President of the Board of Trade why he has decided to deduct four coupons from each member of the Home Guard in respect of his Home Guard uniform?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Captain Waterhouse)At this time of the year, my right hon. Friend reviews, in conjunction with the other Ministers concerned, all the arrangements for the surrender of coupons by civilian wearers of uniform. No decision has been taken to withdraw coupons from the Home Guard.
§ Sir T. MooreWhen this matter is being considered, as I understand it is being, will my hon. and gallant Friend bear in mind that such a mean proposal would arouse intense resentment throughout the whole of the Home Guard? Why should any additional burden be placed upon those who give such great service and receive so little consideration?
§ Captain WaterhouseI have just informed my hon. and gallant Friend that no decision has been taken, and therefore there is no question of an additional burden.
§ Sir T. MooreWill my hon. and gallant Friend bear in mind the consideration which I have now put to him?
§ Captain WaterhouseIt will be borne in mind.
§ Mr. DribergIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman going to try to get away with it in the Recess, in the hope that it will be forgotten when the House reassembles?