§ 56. Mr. KINGasked whether, as a result of the end of the War against Turkey, he can hold out the prospect of the return of the troops at an early date from the Eastern Fronts; and whether orders have been given that officers and men at home on leave need not return to those fronts?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI understood the War Office were going to answer this question. What happens will depend upon the use that is to be made of these men.
§ Mr. KINGWill every effort be made to bring back as soon as possible many men who have been there two, three, or four years? Will their cases especially be considered, and may we say that it is now being considered with a view to their early return?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI can assure the hon. Member that he is not more sympathetic in this matter than the Government. Obviously no answer can be given until we know whether the War will be prolonged, and whether these troops are to be used in any other theatre of the War. The fact that many of them have been away so long is regarded by the War Office as a reason for giving them leave as soon as possible.