§ 11. Mr. WATERSONasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that Private 0. Crick, No. 97434, 238th Company, Machine Gun Corps, Third Section, Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force, Mesopotamia, attested in February, 1916, under Lord Derby's scheme, and was called up in January, 1917; if he is aware that many of these troops have been away more than two and a half years without leave; if he can state if the pledge given to Lord Derby's men, relative to attestation, is to be kept; if so, when may we expect Private Crick home; and, if not, whether he is aware of the gravity and seriousness of this pledge-breaking, and what results may accrue from it?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLOrders are now in force which provide for the dispatch to the United Kingdom of all men who joined the Colours for continuous service prior to 1st July, 1917, and are eligible for demobilisation by 1st March, 1920, subject to the necessary transport being available.