§ 25. Mr. W. J. Brownasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that the proposal to exact from Maltese civil servants on loan to Italian bases the sum of 2s. daily for messing repayments absorbs practically the whole of the £40 allowed to them to meet the cost of extra expenses due to temporary transfer; that, owing to the inadequacy of the rates proposed, volunteers are not forthcoming; and if he will consider increasing the amounts to be paid.
§ The Civil Lord of the Admiralty (Captain Pilkington)The allowance of £40 per annum is that payable to an unmarried Maltese clerk, temporarily transferred for service in Italy, in respect of the 817 extra expenses incurred by such service. The rate was fixed in November last on the basis that such men would be provided with free accommodation, and as it is more than sufficient to meet the messing charge mentioned by the hon. Member, there is no obvious case for increasing it. No representations have been received from the local naval authorities that volunteers are not forthcoming because of the inadequacy of the allowance, but, as has already been explained, departmentally to the Civil Service Clerical Association, the rate is provisional and subject to review, and this review is now proceeding.
§ Mr. BrownCan the hon. and gallant Gentleman say when he expects this consideration to be completed?
§ Captain PilkingtonNo, Sir, but the naval authorities there have been asked what is the position, following the hon. Member's Question.