HC Deb 20 February 1940 vol 357 c1133
35. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the limitation of free travelling warrants to two per year frequently imposes hard ship on soldiers granted leave on com passionate grounds to visit seriously ill near relatives; and whether he will consider granting extra free travelling warrants in such cases?

Mr. Stanley

I regret that I am unable to extend the existing concessions applying to travelling on leave.

Mr. Sorensen

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a great deal of unnecessary hardship on some soldiers who are suddenly being asked to see sick relatives, and in view of that will he not make another effort to consider this matter on compassionate grounds?

Mr. Stanley

Two free warrants are given during the year and the soldier can allocate them for whatever journey he desires. If, therefore, he is called back on grounds of illness and has to go a long journey he can use a free warrant for that purpose.

Mr. Sorensen

Is the Minister aware that the soldier might have used up his two free warrants when illness occurs and, therefore, might be put to considerable expense? Will the Minister look into it again?

Mr. Stanley

I will look into the matter again although I have already looked into it carefully and am afraid I can hold out little hope.