§ Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will indicate the average amount stopped from the soldiers' weekly pay; the particular items this stoppage covers; and whether he has considered the desirability of reducing or abolishing these stoppages?
§ Mr. EdenThe average deduction on account of compulsory stoppages is 7d. a week, made up as follows:
From 1st July next, the insurance contribution will be raised to 6½d., making the total 8d. a week. In addition, there are voluntary subscriptions to sports clubs, regimental and old comrades associations, regimental journals and the like. These are now limited to 2s. a month, and commanding officers have been enjoined to review all such expenses 40W periodically, with a view to eliminating any unnecessary expenditure.
- Statutory contribution in respect of Widows', Orphans' and Old Age Pensions Insurance, 5½d.
- Barrack damages, 1½d.