§ 16. Mr. RENDALLasked whether Lance-Corporal J. Bryant, of the 3rd battalion Royal Scots, has been reported on by the commanding officer as unable to perform any military service in the field and will be permanently unfit to do so; whether this is the result of loss of fingers by shell fire in the present War; whether he has expressed a desire to be discharged from the Service; and why, when he has largely sacrificed his career to the country, the discharge cannot be granted forthwith?
§ Mr. TENNANTI understand that Lance-Corporal Bryant was reported unfit for service abroad; but fit for service at home. He has expressed, unofficially, his desire to be discharged, but accompanies this request with the proviso that employment can be found for him which will not reduce his weekly earnings. As he is employed on duty which releases a man fit for service with the Expeditionary Force, and as in addition no guarantee can be given that his weekly earnings would not be reduced, it is not proposed to discharge him.
§ Mr. RENDALLMay I ask, if he withdraws that proviso, whether the discharge will then be granted?
§ Mr. TENNANTI cannot give a promise, but no doubt it will be considered by the Government.