HC Deb 21 May 1936 vol 312 cc1371-2
76. Captain PLUGGE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in all future cases where regiments are moved from stations in the western hemisphere to stations in the east or vice versa, thus passing by this country, he will ascertain whether it is possible to adjust trooping arrangements so as to allow the men to spend some time with their families at home, and thus break their long spell of separation?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Sir Victor Warrender)

This question has received sympathetic consideration on many occasions, but I regret that it would not be possible to delay a troopship, to enable men of a battalion to take leave, without dislocating the trooping programme and causing expense to the taxpayer. I might add, however, that when individual men are posted from eastern to western stations, and no question of delaying a troopship arises, it is the practice to grant leave in the United Kingdom en route.

Captain PLUGGE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of recent complaints that troopships call sometimes for only a few hours in British ports before proceeding to their destination in some distant part of the world?

Sir V. WARRENDER

Yes, Sir. I am aware that there have been complaints, but this is a question of expense and of the delay to troopships which would be involved.

Mr. SHINWELL

But is it not true that the expense would be infinitesimal and that, compared with advantages which would accrue to the men concerned and their families, it is a small matter?

Sir V. WARRENDER

It would not be true to say that the expense is inconsiderable.

Mr. WOODS

Is it not possible to organise the transport in such a way that it would not be necessary to make these journeys continuous?

77. Captain PLUGGE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to the lengthy periods during which wives of men on service with the Fifth Division in the East have been separated from their husbands; and whether he can readjust movements of troops so as to diminish these long periods of separation?

Sir V. WARRENDER

My right hon. Friend is aware of the situation referred to and is watching the matter carefully.

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