§ 10. Mr. Daggarasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction of members of the Services because of the recent cut in the amount of cigarettes; and if he will arrange for the usual supply to be made available.
§ 38. Captain Gammansasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware of the shortage of cigarettes amongst the Army of Occupation in Germany and Austria; and what steps he is taking to remedy the situation.
§ Mr. LawsonSo far as I am aware there is no shortage of supplies of cigarettes for the normal free issue of 50 a week per man. It has been necessary, however, to reduce the quantities on sale in N.A.A.F.I. canteens abroad, because of production difficulties, the cessation of lend lease supplies, and the serious shortage of cigarettes for civilians in Great Britain. Cigarettes are now released for sale in canteens at the rate of 280 a man per month, as against 360 before 1st August. The troops were informed of the reason for the reduction and as far as I know, there have been no general complaints. It is hoped that the situation will be easier by the end of the year.
§ Captain GammansCan the right hon. Gentleman assure the House that the men in Germany and Austria have the same facilities for getting cigarettes as if they were stationed at home?
§ Mr. LawsonI should be surprised to know that they have not, but I shall have to look at the question before I can give a definite answer.