§ Sir R. Youngasked the Secretary of State for War if he aware of the discontent of many men of S.E.A.C. in not deriving any practical benefit from the recommendations of Lord Munster except free mail; that the ration of seven cigarettes a day is not supplied, with the result that Burmese cigars made of wood shavings rolled in the husk of maize are used; that a bottle of fruit cordial costs 3s. 4½d., while the allowance of cordial is two bottles and one packet of biscuits per rifle section; and whether he will take immediate steps to supply, on a level with American Forces, goods of equal quality, abundance and cost to British Servicemen.
§ Mr. PetherickTroops in S.E.A.C. have hitherto been entitled to 50 cigarettes for a week. Troops who are in places, such as the most forward areas, where no canteen facilities can be made available, will, after the middle of June, receive 100 cigarettes for a week. If my hon. Friend will forward me particulars of the unit which did not receive its free cigarettes I will have inquiries made. The Indian Canteen Stores Department and not N.A.A.F.I. is responsible for the supply of cordials and other such stores to troops in S.E.A.C, but if my hon. Friend will send me particulars of the complaints he has had I will gladly forward them.