HC Deb 16 February 1954 vol 523 cc1790-1
10. Mr. Simmons

asked the Secretary of State for War to give, as separate items, the cost to the taxpayer of providing food, clothing, accommodation, equipment and arms and ammunition to a private soldier in 1938 and in 1953.

Mr. Head

The approximate annual costs of feeding, clothing and housing a soldier in 1938 and 1953 respectively were: food, £25 and £48; clothing, including personal equipment, £3 and £14; and accommodation, £20 and £45.

The cost of arms, ammunition and other equipment cannot realistically be related to the individual soldier.