§ Mr. DEVLINasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that great dissatisfaction exists amongst Irish soldiers at the delays on the part of Irish regimental paymasters to pay gratuities on the termination of demobilisation furloughs; whether he is aware that the men regard this as a method to force men dependent on their gratuities back into the Service; and whether he will take prompt action to remedy the grievance complained of?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe gratuity due to a demobilised soldier is deposited for him in the Post Office Savings Bank, and the Savings Bank book should be ready for issue at the local post office on the due date, namely, the last day of the man's dispersal furlough, on which day he ceases to be a soldier. Cases of delay at the present time are, I understand, quite exceptional, but if my hon. Friend will give me particulars of any such cases I shall be glad to have them investigated.