§ 119. Major BOYD-CARPENTERasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Private C. T. Spenceley, No. 91291, 18th Battalion Durham Light Infantry, was recommended for demobilisation by his commanding officer on 13th January, 1919, prior to the issue of the Army Order of 1st February, 1919,and that such recommendation was endorsed by the Ministry of Labour, Appointments Branch, 5th Division, Leeds, also prior to 1st February, 1919; and whether action can be taken to release this soldier, and others in a similar situation, in accordance with the terms of Army Order 14, of 29th January, 1919, Section 3, Subsection (7)?
Captain GUESTI am informed that an application on Form R.C.T.V. was received by the Appointments Department, Ministry of Labour, in respect of Private Spenceley, and that his release slip was sent to the officer commanding his unit on the 2nd January last. The fact of a release slip having been sent in respect of a soldier does not bring him within the Sub-section referred to, which only relates to cases for special release. Private Spenceley's demobilisation is dependent on his being eligible under Army Order 55, of 1919.
Colonel THORNECan the hon. and gallant Gentleman state who has got the last word in a question of demobilisation?