HC Deb 12 July 1944 vol 401 c1719
14. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for Air what steps have been, or will be, taken to secure the services of N.A.A.F.I. to airmen in India to enable them to supplement their rations at reasonable prices; and whether he is satisfied that everything possible is being done to ensure the nourishment and well-being of airmen serving in India.

Sir A. Sinclair

In regard to the first part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for India on 27th April last to the hon. Member for East Fulham (Mr. Astor), of which I am sending him a copy. In reply to the second part of the Question, conditions are often difficult, but continuous attention is paid to the dietary and welfare of airmen in India and everything possible is done and will be done for them within the limits of available resources.

Mr. Sorensen

While appreciating the answer, might I ask the Secretary of State for Air whether he realises that there are some units suffering from lack of supplementary food and other advantages of that kind?

Sir A. Sinclair

I think there is some complaint about the variety of the food—the quantity is adequate, I think. We are doing our best to improve the variety of the food, and the welfare of the troops in India generally.

Mr. Astor

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many R.A.F. officers returning to India complain very strongly as to the standard of canteens in India? Will he try to have those canteens put on the same level as the canteens which the American Air Force in India enjoys?

Sir A. Sinclair

No, Sir. If my hon. Friend will refer to the reply of 27th April he will see that the canteens in India are the responsibility of the Indian Government.