HC Deb 24 March 1937 vol 321 cc2911-2W
Mr. Petherick

asked the Secretary of State for War (1) whether he is aware that in cold weather the coal allowance for Army units is sometimes insufficient; if the present computation of such allowances is made rigidly without regard to the weather; and if he will inquire into the present system of granting these allowances with a view to amendment;

(2) whether he is aware that, owing to the cold winter, many regiments are overdrawn in their coal allowances; and if permission will be granted for them to write off these overdrafts?

Sir V. Warrender

I am aware of the fact that the scales of fuel allowed in barracks have sometimes proved insufficient in cold weather. While, however, the scales of fuel are expressed in terms of weekly quantities, the totals are calculated to meet full annual requirements, and savings made in the summer can therefore be set off against excess consumption in the winter, and underdrawals in one year may also be carried forward to the following one. The regulations provide, moreover, that charges on account of annual overdrawals may be remitted in suitable cases. The scales of fuel have recently been reviewed, and certain additions will be made to them from 1st June next.