§ 51. Sir F. FLANNERYasked whether a War Office order was issued granting free railway warrants to all soldiers for a period beginning 4th December, 1914, ending 31st January, 1915, being-Christmas leave; whether from 4th December, 1914, till 20th January, 1915, all men of No. 4 Company, 5th Battalion Essex Regiment (R.), who obtained leave had to pay their own fares, the first free railway warrant not being issued until 21st January; and whether the money thus expended by the soldiers will be refunded to them?
Mr. BAKEROwing to military exigencies it was only possible to allow the Christmas leave and free railway warrants to soldiers not fully trained. Arrangements have been made for a refund to all men who were allowed leave but paid their own fares. I am having inquiry made into the case referred to by the hon. Member.