§ Mr. W. GRAHAMasked the Secretary of State for War whether many regimental paymasters, in the statement of accounts issued to men on demobilisation, are deducting £1 in respect of Army greatcoats; whether this is in keeping with existing Regulations; whether it is the case that the greatcoat belongs to the man; and, whether, in view of widespread misunderstanding on the point, the man who decides to return the greatcoat on demobilisation is entitled to £1 in place of it?
§ Mr. FORSTERAlthough the soldier is allowed on demobilisation to take away his military greatcoat for wear during the period of his furlough, the coat remains the property of the State and not of the man, and £1 is held back from the balance due to him against its return. He can receive the £1on handing in the greatcoat at any railway station, or if heprefers it he can retain the coat, in which case the £1 is not refunded to him.