HC Deb 29 November 1916 vol 88 c331
58. Mr. RUTHERFORD

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will make arrangements that those wounded and sick soldiers who are sufficiently convalescent in our hospitals should be granted leave at Christmas and provided with travelling facilities in order to spend Christmas with their families and friends?

Mr. FORSTER

If these men are still in a condition to need hospital treatment, I am afraid that it would not be in the public interest to adopt the hon. Member's suggestion.

Mr. RUTHERFORD

May I be allowed to point out—[HON. MEMBERS: "NO," and "Order."]—May I ask the hon. Gentleman whether he has given attention to the word "sufficiently" in the question; it only relates to those who are sufficiently well?