§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in the case of two men who served in the Army, one of whom has spent the whole of his money and the other by thrift and sobriety has saved a fair amount out of his pay, the Civil Liabilities Committees make a grant towards starting the former in business, but will decline to help the latter because of his thrift; and, if so, whether he can see his way to give instructions to alter this position of affairs?
§ Sir R. HORNEI have been asked to reply to this question. Assistance is given by the Civil Liabilities Department to officers and men who have suffered unavoidable hardship arising out of military service. Account is taken of all the circumstances of the applicant's case, including the question whether he could reasonably have been expected to save, and grants are given or withhold accordingly. The hypothetical difference suggested in my hon. Friend's question ought, therefore, not to exist in fact, but I shall be happy to make inquiries if he will give particulars of any specific case he has in mind.