HC Deb 05 June 1919 vol 116 cc2262-3W
Mr. RENDALL

asked the Secretary of State for War why it is that whilst all ranks in the Armies of Occupation have increased pay the nursing sisters have received no increase whatever, although many Have been abroad for years, and some have recently been transferred from Salonika to Batum; whether he is aware that the sisters who asked to go to Batum have been compelled to pay their messing bills for the whole journey of 6s. a day, although many can ill afford it; and is he now prepared to treat the sisters and nurses working for the Armies of Occupation as fairly in the matter of pay as he has treated all other ranks?

Mr. FORSTER

The Army of Occupation bonus is strictly limited to commissioned officers and enlisted men. Its extension to nursing staff would be a departure from this rule, but is under considera- tion. I will inquire into the question of the messing charges, and communicate with my hon. Friend in due course.