HC Deb 05 June 1919 vol 116 cc2258-9W
Sir F. HALL

asked the Secretary of State for War if his attention has been called to the difficulty arising owing to the fact that under existing arrangements demobilised soldiers have often to wait long periods before obtaining the civilian outfits to which they are entitled on leaving the Army; and if any and, if so, what steps are being taken to expedite the supply of such clothing?

Mr. FORSTER

Apart from the problem of coping with the huge demand for suits, some delay occurred owing to the lack of material and the difficulty of obtaining delivery of the suits after the material came to hand. Occasional abnormal demands for particular sizes also entailed delay, and there were contributory causes such as the giving of incorrect addresses and measurements by the men. I am informed that the number of genuine complaints, in comparison with the bulk of the work, is small, and any arrears that exist are being rapidly overtaken.