Lieut.-Colonel Sir J. HOPEasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that soldiers in North Russia were paid in roubles, and at the same time informed that these could be changed for English money at the rate of 6d. for each rouble either on the ship or at home, but that many soldiers did not understand that they could only change these notes at branches of Messrs. Barclay's Bank, and so failed to exchange ties before the facilities were withdrawn on 1st November; and whether he will now make other arrangements for soldiers to obtain the value of their pay, which they had no option but to accept in roubles?
§ Mr. FORSTERArrangements were made for roubles issued as pay to be exchanged locally before the troops left North Russia. I am not aware that the troops were informed that the roubles could be exchanged on ship or at home. If in any cases soldiers had no opportunity of exchanging their roubles before embarkation, the exchange can be carried out at the War Office. Perhaps my hon. and gallant Friend will communicate tome particulars of any cases that have come to his notice.