§ 1. Mr. HOGGEasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is now in a position to say if all men in the Army have now had at least one leave from all Fronts?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Macpherson)I am afraid I cannot answer my hon. Friend's question without a special reference to the various Commanders-in-Chief, but I can assure the House that every opportunity is being taken of granting leave from all theatres as far as transport facilities and the military situation permit. Improved arrangements are now in force and the House will be interested to know that the average number of men coming over on leave from France during the month of September was 6,245 per day and that the weekly leave party from Italy numbers 1,100. A regular leave service has also been arranged from Salonika. In the case of Palestine and Mesopotamia the position is more difficult owing to the transport question, but everything possible is being done, and I understand that failing home leave local leave to India or Egypt is being freely granted.
§ Mr. HOGGECan my right hon. Friend not ascertain the quite simple answer as to whether he can assure the House that every man has already had one leave?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI can only say I am quite prepared to make any inquiries concerning leave. I have taken a very great interest in this question, and I am glad to make inquiries.
§ Mr. WATTDid not the right hon. Gentleman make a promise before the Recess that every man on the Far Eastern fronts would have an opportunity of getting home?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONNo, but I think I have fulfilled the promise I did make.