§ Mr. MORSEasked the Secretary of State for War, whether the payment of £1 half-yearly, demanded by the garrison adjutant from firms entering the Tidworth area, was authorised: whether it is his intention to refund the sums paid; and, if not, for what purpose will those moneys be allocated?
§ Mr. WALSHThe levy of £1 half-yearly was instituted by the Officer Commanding the Troops acting within his discretion and after consultation with leading local tradesmen. The sums collected were credited to the Garrison Central Fund which exists for the benefit and welfare of the troops stationed at Tidworth. The levy has now been discontinued, and I think it would inflict hardship on the troops to make a refund of the sums paid, having regard to the fact that such refund would fall on a fund which contributes to their comfort and well-being.