§ 26. Mr. R. MCNEILLasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Gunner G. H. Cloke, No. 105,707, E. Company, 1/lst Lowland Battery, Royal Garrison Artillery, was advised from home on 1st February that his wife was dying, but was unable to obtain leave to come home, that his wife died on 6th February after confinement, but that leave has still been refused to Cloke; and whether, seeing that in such circumstances it is usual wherever possible to grant leave and that arrangements for the care of his child and home require Cloke's presence, he will take steps to procure leave for this man to visit his home for the purpose mentioned?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONRepresentations were made to the authorities in this case, as is done in all cases of urgency, with a view to their considering the question of leave. I have no doubt that this case is receiving every consideration, but the grant of leave rests with the Commander-in-Chief.
§ Mr. McNEILLCan my hon. Friend give any more regular assurance than that special circumstances will be considered favourably?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONIn cases of special urgency we have communicated with the Commander-in-Chief in France, and I believe that this has been done in this case. I feel sure that he will give the case every consideration.