§ 32. Mr. Keelingasked the Secretary of State for War, whether he is aware that the troops still serving in Norway enjoy, apart from limited N.A.A.F.I. supplies, no amenities such as were available abroad during the war and are unable to afford the inflated Norwegian prices for such things as haircutting, extra food and drink, railway and tramway fares and cinema tickets; that their duties bring them into close relation with their Norwegian comrades whose hospitality they are unable, but ought to be able, to return; and whether he will alleviate these hardships either by a Norwegian allowance or by arranging for pay to be drawn at a sufficiently high exchange rate.
§ Mr. BellengerA special allowance has recently been granted to these troops.
§ Mr. KeelingHow much?
§ Mr. BellengerThe allowance is 1s. 6d. a day for officers and 9d. a day for other ranks.
§ Mr. KeelingAs that seems inadequate to meet the grievances specified in the Question, will the Secretary of State say whether the commanding officer is satisfied that they have been redressed?
§ Mr. BellengerThere are only a few of these troops in Norway—
§ Mr. KeelingThat does not make any difference.
§ Mr. BellengerI will certainly look into the question again to see if any representation has been made by the officer commanding.