§ 27. Squadron-Leader Sir Gilford Foxasked the Secretary of State for War why the Treasury grant that used to be given to E.N.S.A. has not been continued to the Army K.S. authorities to help subsidise entertainment, with the result that now other ranks have to pay 40 per cent, more for cinema shows, etc.
§ Mr. BellengerWith the end of war conditions, the continuance of expense to the taxpayer in the provision of film entertainment to the troops was not considered to be justified, and it was decided that in peacetime the troops should pay for their own film entertainment without subsidy from public funds, except in special circumstances as, for instance, in hospital.
§ Sir Ronald RossIs it the policy of the War Office that there should be a lower standard of welfare for troops than that which existed under the last Government?
§ Mr. BellengerNo, Sir. I would not have put it in that way.
§ Mr. WalkdenIs not it almost a fallacy to say that the Treasury ever paid anything over the last three years? Is not it true that this came out of the profits on tobacco and beer which the troops themselves bought from N.A.A.F.I. and that N.A.A.F.I footed the bill, and not the Treasury, at least in the main?
§ Mr. BellengerNot entirely. The Treasury did pay a subsidy to E.N.S.A.
§ Mr. WalkdenHow much?
§ Mr. BossomCould the Minister say that he is entirely satisfied with the present form of entertainment which is being given in Germany?
§ Mr. BellengerI do not know about Germany, Sir. There are theatres in 195 overseas commands where I am not entirely satisfied that the right kind of entertainment is being provided but I am doing my best, with the aid of good artists, to provide it.
§ Mr. BossomHow about Germany?
§ Mr. BellengerThat is not too bad.