Major NEWMANasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he will give the number of civilians of military age who are at present acting as checkers in connection with hay pressing and the purchase of forage in Ireland; what is their weekly pay and allowances; and why these positions are not reserved for disabled soldiers and military pensioners?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe number is fifteen, of whom five are discharged soldiers and the remainder are nearly all unfit for military service. Their weekly pay and allowances vary from £1 16s. to £2 9s. Disabled soldiers and military pensioners are employed wherever suitable men are available.