asked the Minister for Defence whether he has received many applications for payment of £16 3s. 1d., due to Mr. Thomas Coulter, of Dunkineely, Tirconaill, for goods supplied two years ago, and if he will state when Mr. Coulter may expect this account to be settled.

Only one application appears to have reached Headquarters from Mr. Coulter for payment of the account referred to. This was received on the 13th ultimo. No details were given. A communication was, therefore, addressed to Mr. Coulter to furnish full particulars to enable the matter to be dealt with. This information is still awaited. On its receipt the account will be considered as quickly as possible.

Is the Minister aware that Mr. Coulter has stated that he rendered these accounts a dozen times and in full detail? Will the Minister have the pigeon-holes of the Ministry turned out?

I am aware such statements have been made by others, but the information I have is that the only account received was that I have mentioned, and no details were given. However, I will have inquiries made.