§ 7. Mr. Mathersasked the Secretary of State for War what allowances are paid to the dependants of Cypriot soldiers living in Cyprus; why there is a differentiation as compared with other British troops; and, in view of the high cost of living in Cyprus, will he arrange to equalise the allowances?
§ Sir J. GriggThe families of Cypriot soldiers living in Cyprus are paid family allowance at half the British rates. These rates are related to the normal standard of living of these families which is lower than the standard of living of British families. I am considering whether an increase should be made in the present Cypriot rates.
§ Mr. MathersIn any consideration will the right hon. Gentleman keep in mind the very steep rise that has taken place in the cost of living in Cyprus?
§ Sir J. GriggIf there had not been such a rise, there would have been no case for considering it.
§ Mr. MathersIs it not also the case that the differentiation is unfair and wrong within the Empire?