HC Deb 15 April 1919 vol 114 cc2697-8
8. Mr. CLOUGH

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that a number of the original 1914 Expeditionary Force are still retained with the Colours; and whether the time has arrived when these survivors should be summarily demobilised in view of their long services?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Such men as are eligible for demobilisation are being demobilised as rapidly as circumstances permit. Amongst them are, no doubt, a number of soldiers serving on normal engagements who have not completed their term of Colour Service, and who, of course, are not eligible for demobilisation.

Sir F. HALL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that members of the New Army who enlisted in 1914 have been retained and that it is found very difficult to get them out?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am afraid I do not quite follow.

Sir F. HALL

There are many men of the New Armies who joined in 1914 who have not yet been demobilised, and notwithstanding communications that hon. Members send we still find considerable difficulty in getting these men of 1914 and early 1915 who have been retained demobilised.

Mr. CHURCHILL

Everything is being done to demobilise them as fast as possible, having regard to the practical difficulties of transport, climate, and replacement, and, as I say, over two millions have been demobilised since the beginning of the year.

Sir F. HALL

Will he take it up with the various Departments specially concerned?

Mr. ROSE

Will he cause to be circulated more widely the Regulations in respect to demobilisation?

Mr. SWAN

Is he aware that some of those who joined in 1914 have been returned on furlough and are still sent back again to the Western Front?

Mr. CHURCHILL

They may be in particular categories, like those engaged in demobilising others, but that should not occur in any case where a man is not in a special category. I will see what can be done to place a leaflet in the hands of hon. Members dealing with all these points.

Sir J. BUTCHER

In preparing that leaflet will he set out the compassionate grounds more fully than we know them at present?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Yes; I will try to make it complete. I may say I am contemplating a considerable extension of the grounds on which compassionate cases may be dealt with.