§ 45. Mr. CROOKSasked the Secretary of State for War whether a draft of the 777 Army Ordnance Corps is lying at Devonport awaiting transport to France and the men have been told that they cannot have any leave; and whether in view of the fact that the draft is not expected to embark for some days yet, he can make representations to the commanding officer to recognise the practice of allowing final leave to these soldiers before they go to France?
§ Mr. FORSTERMy right hon. Friend will, I am sure, realise that when a draft has been assembled at a port and is merely awaiting transport it is not possible to let them be scattered on leave to various parts of the kingdom. May I be allowed to point out to my right hon. Friend that the appearance of such a question on the Paper may possibly give the enemy submarine valuable information.