Sir F. HALLasked the Secretary of State for War if, as the result of the further depreciation of the German mark, the value of the pay of the soldiers serving in the Army of Occupation has been reduced to the extent of 5s. for every 100 marks; if the rates of pay which were fixed some time ago were based on the then purchasing value of the mark; and, if so, whether he is prepared to make any adjustment by way of compensation?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe official rates of exchange for the issue of German currency to the troops are based on the commercial rate for the mark over neutral exchanges, and are now as a rule fixed twice a month. The rate of 10 marks—3s. 3d.—fixed for the month of June, proved to be too low owing to the rapid depreciation of the mark in the early part of the month, and the rate for the last week in June was altered to 10 marks—2s. 9d. In compensation for the unfavour-2306W able rate prevailing for the first three weeks of June, this rate still holds, although the mark has appreciated during July.