HC Deb 29 October 1918 vol 110 cc1269-70
25. Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether leave can be granted to Driver T. W. Wealthdale, No. 612,246, 1/1 Notts Royal Horse Artillery, at present serving in Palestine, who has served overseas for over 3½ years without once obtaining leave?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I would refer my noble Friend to the answers I gave to questions which he asked on the 17th and 21st October. I am afraid I cannot take any special action in the case mentioned, but, as I have already stated, every endeavour is made to ensure that all men are considered in turn for a period of leave.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

Is it not a fact that the Mesopotamia Force is the only force which does not give any home leave?

Mr. MACPHERSON

The Mesopotamia Force does not give any home leave at all at present.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

Are not facilities given to the men of the Palestine Force to come home if the commanding officer would only allow the men to come?

Mr. MACPHERSON

We have a great many of these men home now, but the difficulties of transport are so enormous that it is quite impossible to give leave to all.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

Did not the right hon. Gentleman say in answer to a question lately that transport facilities were available

Mr. MACPHERSON

In certain theatres of war, certainly.

General McCALMONT

Could the right hon. Gentleman give an undertaking that if conditions should alter in the Mediterranean the earliest opportunity will be taken of increasing the transport facilities and removing this very justifiable grievance?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I quite agree that it is a grievance, but, after all said and done, leave is a question of privilege and not of right. I can assure the House that we at the War Office are anxious that men should get reasonable leave, and general officers commanding are themselves anxious that men should go.

Mr. HOGGE

Has my hon. Friend ascertained yet whether every man has had at least a week?

Mr. MACPHERSON

No!

Mr. WATT

Is it not the case that officers get leave in greater proportion than they are entitled to?

Mr. MACPHERSON

No. I saw the other day an officer who has been away three years without leave.