§ 15. Sir R. Youngasked the Secretary of State for War whether the relatives of seriously wounded men in distant hospitals receive free travelling passes and whether the relatives of less seriously wounded men receive passes at a reduced rate; if so, what is the percentage reduction on railway fares; and whether all regimental pay offices, or the authorities dealing with this matter, make the same percentage reductions?
§ Mr. EdenWhen a man is reported dangerously ill in hospital, two persons, one of whom must be a relative, may travel to visit him on free warrants. If the man is in hospital but not reported dangerously ill, his wife and children under 16 years of age, or, if he is unmarried, his parents, brothers and sisters, may use concession vouchers which enable them to make the return journey at single fare, whatever the distance.
§ Sir R. YoungIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these reduced fares are entirely beyond the power of the soldier's wife to pay?
§ Mr. SorensenWould it not be possible to provide that when the distance from home is over a certain length these free passes might be granted?
§ Mr. EdenThey are, of course, granted in all cases when a man is dangerously ill. I think that limit would be rather a difficult one to draw.