Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTTasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he was now able to give any further explanation of the misunderstanding owing to which 300 men of the 7th battalion of the Highland Light Infantry Territorials were refused leave to return home from the Troon camp after eight day's training, although the conditions of their employment made it imperative that they should return; and whether steps could be taken 187 to secure the prevention of any such misunderstanding in future by giving full discretion to the commanding officer who had full knowledge of the circumstances?
§ Colonel SEELYWith regard to the first part of the question I have nothing to add to previous replies on this subject. With regard to the second part of the question, it has always been the intention that commanding officers should have full discretion in granting leave from annual training. If any further action is required in order to secure that there shall be no misunderstanding on the point, instructions will be issued accordingly.
§ Mr. JOHN WARDDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think it will have an effect on recruiting for the Territorial force if men who cannot get leave from their work are compelled to remain in camp and lose their employment?
§ Colonel SEELYThat is another point.
Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware whether there has been any misunderstanding on this point?
§ Colonel SEELYI think all misunderstandings will now be removed.