105. Mr. CATHCART WASONasked the Secretary to the Admiralty if it has been brought to his knowledge that Mr. Robert Williamson. Royal Naval Reserve, after going through the battle of Jutland, obtained leave for nine days from the 17th to 26th January, and that he arrived home-on 20th January in a dying condition; that an official telegram was sent to the commander of H.M.S. "Malaya" on 22nd January that he was seriously ill and an official certificate posted to the commander on the same day that Williamson was suffering from acute phthisis, and that despite the facts that were brought before the notice of the commander, a warrant was issued to arrest the dying man as a deserter; and, if inquiry shows negligence was shown by some official or other, will he take suitable steps to redeem the dead man's character from the aspersions that have been placed on it?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAMy hon. Friend is under a misapprehension, doubtless owing to the fact that two men of the same name are concerned. No warrant was issued to arrest the Robert Williamson, who was suffering and ultimately died from phthisis. The warrant in question was issued in respect of another Robert Williamson who did not return from leave.
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI am informed that there was no warrant for the arrest of the 918 man who died. I will take care that the relatives understand this if there has been any misunderstanding.