HC Deb 20 January 1942 vol 377 cc236-7W
Mr. David Adams

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that, in the North of England, members of the Auxiliary Territorial Service are compelled to sleep two in a bed, and as many as eight in a small bedroom; and whether steps are being taken to remedy these disabilities?

Sir E. Grigg

I have had investigations made in the case of the single billet to which I understand my hon. Friend refers. The allegation is completely unfounded. Only two auxiliaries are sleeping in the house in question and each has a separate room and a separate bed.

Sir R. Gower

asked the Secretary of State for War how the outfit allowance for officers of the Auxiliary Territorial Service compares with that for Army officers of the same rank; and whether he can give details of expenditure in each case?

Captain Margesson

Officers of the Auxiliary Territorial Service receive an outfit allowance of £40 to cover the clothing they need, including two suits of service dress. Army officers receive either £35 or £45 according to whether they require one suit of service dress and one suit of battle dress or two suits of service dress. These allowances do not vary with rank. The clothing required by Auxiliary Territorial Service officers can be bought for approximately £37 exclusive of Purchase Tax, and that of Army officers for £42 exclusive of Purchase Tax where two suits of service dress are required.