Mr. E. HARVEYasked the Under-secretary of State for War whether his attention has been directed to the Regulation recently laid down by the competent 1248W military authority in the Swindon district of Salisbury Plain prohibiting the sale of tea, coffee, and other non-intoxicating beverages in the huts of the Church Army, Salvation Army, and Young Men's Christian Association during certain hours during which beer and other intoxicants are sold at the Army canteens; whether the effect of this Regulation on the health and habits of the troops has been fully considered; and whether steps will be taken to modify it so as to allow of the provision of tea and coffee in the huts at all hours during which intoxicants are on sale elsewhere?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONThe sale of tea is not permitted in Army canteens or in the canteens of philanthropic societies, situated on War Department land, in the Southern Command, until after 6.30 p.m. with the exception of half an hour during the morning. There is no restriction on the sale of coffee, cocoa, or other non-intoxicating beverages. The Order was issued because, tea being a restricted supply to the civilian population, it is not considered necessary that it should be served to soldiers at all times of the day in addition to the adequate Army ration provided at breakfast and tea-time. Owing to some misunderstanding the Order was interpreted in the Chiseldon district as including coffee and cocoa, but this has now been rectified.