§ Sir J. D. REESasked (1) whether deductions are to be made under the National Insurance Act from the pay of soldiers of British regiments serving in India; if so, whether the assent of the Government of India was obtained to the diversion of funds provided by it for pay to other objects; and (2) whether, under the National Insurance Act, compulsory deductions are made from the pay of soldiers belonging to regiments of the British Army while they are serving in India; and, if the answer be in the affirmative, whether the concurrence of the India Office has been obtained to such diversion of funds provided by that Government for the specific purpose of paying troops and not for providing benefits which for the most part cannot be enjoyed until after the return of such troops to home service?
§ Mr. MONTAGUUnder the National Insurance Act British soldiers serving in India are placed in precisely the same position, both as regards deductions and benefits, as those serving at home. This arrangement is fully concurred in by the Secretary of State for India.