§ 33. Mr. Bellengerasked the Secretary of State for War what items of expenditure the 5½d. a week kit allowance to soldiers is expected to cover; and when was this allowance fixed at its present level?
§ Sir J. GriggUntil the outbreak of war this allowance was an element in clothing allowance, the rate of which was last changed in February, 1939. It is a grant in aid of the expenditure incurred by the soldier on such items as haircutting, toilet and shaving soap, razor blades, toothpaste and blanco.
§ Mr. BellengerHas my right hon. Friend had any experience himself which would lead him to believe that 5½d. a week is sufficient to meet the necessities he has mentioned?
§ Sir J. GriggNo, it is not sufficient to cover the whole cost. That is why I said that it was a grant in aid.
§ Mr. BellengerWill my right hon. Friend increase the grant in aid?
§ Sir J. GriggThat question was dealt with in the general settlement of pay and allowances, which was debated in this House some months ago. I think that at present it is as well that that settlement should stand.
§ Mr. Glenvil HallWould it not save an enormous amount of labour if the sum was made a round 6d.? That would save the reckoning of small sums which has to be done now?