§ Mr. Goldieasked the Secretary of State for War why recruits in His Majesty's Army are not at present supplied with a second pair of boots until the completion of their recruit period of training; and whether, inasmuch as the single pair of boots now issued has to be utilised for parade and fatigue duties as well as when on leave, he will, in the interests of the health and comfort of such recruits, again authorise the provision of a second pair of boots so that they may be in possession of a change of footwear, instead of as in the recent inclement weather, being compelled to wear boots which are not dry?
§ Mr. StanleyThe issue of only one pair of boots to recruits was due to an insufficiency of supply, but authority for the issue of a second pair in all cases is now being given.