Captain Duncanasked the First Lord of the Admiralty, whether he is aware that the cost of tropical kit necessarily incurred by officers of the Fleet Air Arm for service in tropical climates is about 205W £40; and whether he will issue grants to such officers as are required to serve in tropical climates to cover this expense?
Mr. AlexanderThe figure quoted by my hon. and gallant Friend as representing the cost of tropical kit necessarily incurred by officers of the Fleet Air Arm, is somewhat excessive. The present Outfit Gratuity is £40, but an increase of £5, and also a further £5 as a contribution towards the cost of tropical kit, has just been authorised. I must emphasise, however, that as my hon. and gallant Friend will realise, uniform allowances are intended as grants-in-aid only.