HC Deb 24 October 1950 vol 478 c2691
34. Mr. Low

asked the Secretary of State for War how far the Hong Kong rate of local overseas allowance is still paid to officers and men previously stationed there and now on service in Korea; in so far as reductions have been made, what payments in lieu are made to those with families still resident in Hong Kong; and how long these payments will continue.

Mr. M. Stewart

Hong Kong rates of local overseas allowance were paid to these officers and men up to 30th September. They then ceased, but payment of the difference between married and single rates of local overseas allowance was continued in respect of those with families remaining in Hong Kong, and will continue for so long as the families necessarily reside there.

Mr. Low

Is the hon. Gentleman certain that the difference between the married and single rates of overseas allowance covers the extra expense which must be borne by a married man now serving in Korea whose family remained in Hong Kong? Surely, such a man ought to be paid the whole marriage allowance which was designed for his family need.

Mr. Stewart

I think that the arrangement we have made is a fair one in the circumstances.