§ Mr. FIELDasked the Secretary of State for War whether foreign meat is supplied for five days in each week to the troops stationed in Ireland; whether foreign forage is imported for the horses; whether the equipment is made and repaired outside Ireland; whether many regimental canteens are supplied by contractors outside Ireland; and, if so, whether he can give any statement of details showing in what way Ireland reaps benefit by the presence of troops there?
§ Mr. HALDANEThe hon. Member is no doubt aware that the presence of troops in any locality is of considerable financial advantage to that locality whether in Great Britain or Ireland. The conditions of the contracts for meat and forage are common to troops throughout the United Kingdom. The equipment is provided from sources outside Ireland, but repairs are as a rule executed locally. The arrangements for canteens are made locally.