§ 16. Mr. A. Edwardsasked the Secretary of State for War what steps he proposes to take with regard to both a limitation 618 and a control of the purchasing power of the Allied Armies in liberated territories of Europe.
§ Sir J. GriggIt would not be in the public interest to say in advance what steps are proposed in the direction desired by the hon. Member. The desirability certain circumstances of limiting and controlling the purchasing power of invading armies is fully appreciated by His Majesty's Government and by the Government of the United States of America. The Supreme Commander is also fully acquainted with the problem.
§ Mr. EdwardsIn view of previous very serious mistakes in this matter, will the right hon. Gentleman keep in mind his recent statement about the danger of creating wild inflation?
§ Sir J. GriggThe circumstances are completely different. In any case, I do not, in the least, admit the suggestion that the previous exchange rates have been fixed on wrong figures.
Mr. J. J. DavidsonIs it not a fact that, up to the present, the purchasing power of the British soldier has been very carefully controlled by the War Office?