§ 58. Mr. Jannerasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the amount paid to young National Service men when they go on leave is not enough to cover their keep at home; and whether as this is particularly a hardship for parents who are widows, he will increase the grant.
§ Mr. F. MacleanThe minimum rate of pay for a National Service soldier is now 4s. 6d. a day, and whilst on privilege leave he receives a ration allowance of 4s. 10d., making 9s. 4d. a day in all. Some provision is also made for free travel. In these circumstances, I cannot accept the hon. Member's contention that it is impossible for National Service men to pay for their keep whilst at home.