asked the Minister for Defence if he will state in respect of each of the last three years the average weekly cost per head, under the several headings, of the maintenance of serving soldiers in each command.
Written Answers. - Soldiers' Maintenance Cost.
The average weekly cost of an unmarried private, Class III, during the year 1943-44 is estimated at £2 9s. 6½d., and during the years 1944-45 and 1945-46 at £2 10s. 8½d.
The corresponding costs for a married private, Class III, are estimated at £3 15s. 9½d. during 1943-44, and £4 3s. 11½d. during 1944-45 and 1945-46.
The difference in the cost of maintenance of soldiers in each of the commands was negligible, and the figures accordingly cover the Army generally.