§ Sir W. Davisonasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that there is a widely prevailing belief among serving soldiers that they are exempt from liability for payment of rent; and whether he will make it clear that there is no foundation for such belief, but that soldiers may apply to the Military Service Advisory Committee for a special allowance in this regard?
§ Sir V. WarrenderI have no evidence that such a belief is widely prevalent. Soldiers, like other members of the community, are entitled to the protection afforded by the Courts (Emergency Powers) Act, 1939, if, owing to the war they are unable to pay their rent when it is due, but this does not relieve them of the liability for eventual payment. Soldiers can make an application for special financial assistance, which will be considered by the Military Service (Special Allowances) Advisory Committee, if, owing to special circumstances, such as high rents, they are unable to met their liabilities out of their pay and the ordinary regulated allowances.