§ 26. Sir WATSON CHEYNEasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware of the grave discontent among the Special Reserve and Territorial Force officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps in Mesopotamia owing to the fact that they cannot get leave, some having spent two, or even three, hot seasons in Mesopotamia without leave; and, especially in view of the prospect of having to spend another hot season there, will he take steps to give relief to these men?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLMany of these officers, in common with those of the Regular Royal Army Medical Corps and the Indian Medical Service, have leave due to them. This is a matter for the local military authorities, but I would remind my hon. and learned Friend that the granting of leave must necessarily interfere with the release of officers eligible for demobilisation. Regular officers of the Royal Army Medical Corps are being sent out as they become available to replace officers of the Special Reserve and Territorial Force whose demobilisation has been applied for.
§ Captain REDMONDMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether it is not also a fact that the Coalition is going through a hot season?