§ 59. Mr. A. WILLIAMSasked whether Corporal R. W. Atkinson, No. 65415, 1st Northumberland Fusiliers, died in No. 3 Field Ambulance, France, on 23rd August, 1918; whether his death was not reported to the War Office until February, 1919; and, if so, what was the cause of the delay?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI understand that Corporal Atkinson was reported from the base on 2nd September, 1918, as wounded on 23rd August, but his death was not reported. Subsequently a report was received from the Director of Graves Registration and Inquiries that Corporal Atkinson's grave had been located, particulars of the locality being given. This evidence was referred to the base, and an official report then received that Corporal Atkinson had died of his wounds on 23rd August in No. 3 Field Ambulance. I have no doubt that the failure to notify his death at the time was due to the conditions brought about by the very heavy fighting of that period.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSWill the right hon. Gentleman say whether it was February before the case was reported?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLYes, Sir.