§ 31. Mr. Awberyasked the Secretary of State for War the number of officers who have re-enlisted in the Army; and if he is satisfied that the pay offered is sufficient to induce suitable men to make the Army a career.
§ Mr. BellengerFour hundred and forty-eight officers have voluntarily returned to the Active List as officers, after having been released, and 26 have enlisted in the ranks on normal Regular engagements. These figures show the position as at 31st May. In addition, up to 29th June, 1,433 applications for short service commissions have been received from officers who had already left the Army. As regards the last part of the Question, I consider that the rates of pay now offered are by no means ungenerous in themselves, but pay is only one of the factors influencing officers to make the Army a career. It is too early at present to draw any firm conclusion as to the effectiveness of the various measures taken on officer recruitment, but so far I have no reason for taking a pessimistic view.
§ Mr. AwberyAre family allowances, lodging allowances, fuel and light allowances, and servant allowances now subject to Income Tax, and, if so, is that not likely to be a deterrent to reenlistment?
§ Mr. BellengerYes, Sir, it is generally the case that allowances are subject to Income Tax, but that was comprised in the answer I gave.