§ 121. Mr. R. McNEILLasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that Rifleman P. G. Paine, No. 675014, G Company, l/21st London Regiment, British Expeditionary Force, France, who joined the Army in July, 1915, is a skilled linotype machinist, whose release has been applied for by his pre-war employer through the Ministry of Labour in proper form, and has been endorsed by his commanding officer; whether Paine is never- 897 the less being retained for military duty; and if he can say, in view of the fact that Paine's services are urgently needed by his employers, when his discharge from the Army may be expected?
Captain GUESTPrivate Paine is not registered by the War Office either as pivotal or for special release. It would appear, from the information given by my hon. Friend that the application referred to was the usual "contract" offer of employment, and his demobilisation is dependent on his being eligible under existing regulations.
§ Mr. McNEILLIf the facts stated in the question are correct, is he not eligible for demobilisation under the existing Regulations?
Captain GUESTI think the hon. Gentleman will find that the facts are not quite the same as implied in the question. An offer of employment from a firm, described as a "contract" note, does not make a man pivotal, or entitle him to special release.