HC Deb 20 February 1940 vol 357 cc1131-2
32. Mr. Ede

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the military punishment of deprivation of so many days' pay can be abolished and the infliction of a definite fine with a suitable maximum substituted, so that the wife of the soldier concerned shall not be deprived of her allotment as a result of her husband's military delinquency?

Mr. Stanley

It has now been decided that, where the period of forfeiture of pay does not exceed 28 days, the payment to the wife of the amount of the allotment will be continued and will be debited against the soldier's account.

Mr. Ede

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider extending the period beyond 28 days?

Mr. Stanley

I will look into it but I think the concession I am now announcing will go far to meet the difficulty.