§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYI desire to make a personal apology for, and withdrawal of, a remark which I made reflecting on the hon. and gallant Member for Bournemouth (Lieut.-Colonel Croft). In the Debate on Thursday, I said, rather audibly, that he had been sent home. This was heard by several hon. Members, and although that remark was made in good faith and with no reflection on the personal bravery of the hon. and gallant Member, I admit it was quite improper. As a matter of fact, I have found out from more than one source that it was quite inaccurate, and I wish to take this opportunity of making as full a withdrawal and apology as I can to the hon. and gallant Member for my unfortunate remark. Perhaps I may be permitted, in order to show how fully I withdraw, to read four lines from a report by this hon. and gallant Member's commanding officer on the last occasion when a report was made on him at the Front. It reads: 2163
He is quite an exceptionally fine commanding officer, a born soldier and leader of men. He has done magnificent work through the War, and his promotion would be very much in the interests of the Service.
§ Lieut.-Colonel CROFTMay I be permitted to express my thanks to the hon. and gallant Gentleman for the most handsome manner in which he has withdrawn his remark.