HC Deb 24 February 1915 vol 70 cc271-2
70. Mr. KEIR HARDIE

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether his attention has been called to cases where soldiers who had been granted a three days' furlough to go to their homes prior to proceeding abroad, and who, after spending 10s. on train fares, were recalled by telegram within twelve hours; whether, under the circumstances, he will give instructions to refund to the men the money expended in railway fares; whether he is aware that the 10s. allowed for certain articles of kit on enlistment in many cases still remains unpaid; whether he will give instructions for the immediate payment of this allowance; whether the question of granting free railway passes to men going home on furlough prior to being sent abroad has yet been decided; and, if not, can he promise a decision at an early date, in view of the fact that men going long distances often have to expend nearly all their available money in railway fares?

Mr. BAKER

I will make inquiry into the particular case of which the hon. Member has sent me details. Those men who did not get a free warrant for Christmas leave are allowed the concession once after three months service or prior to embarkation for the front, if they can be spared.