HC Deb 20 March 1911 vol 23 cc192-3W
Mr. JOHN WARD

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the pay of a private in the Infantry of the Line is 1s. a day; whether he has anything to find out of his pay for food or equipment; and whether he will take the remuneration of the private soldier into consideration before increasing the salaries of commissioned appointments?

Mr. HALDANE

As the hon. Member is no doubt aware, the remuneration of the private soldier has been largely increased of late years. The Infantry private, in addition to the traditional 1s. a day, receives, when he is fully efficient, proficiency pay at 3d. or 6d. a day. He also receives in addition to rations an allowance of 3d. a day to meet the cost of his messing. He maintains his clothing and kit from an allowance given for the purpose, which is additional to his pay and seems from experience to be amply sufficient.