§ 14. Dr. Littleasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the extra time required for members of the Forces to reach their homes in Northern Ireland and more especially as at times delays are occasioned by war-time restrictions, he will grant them an additional leave of two days beyond that ordinarily given?
§ Mr. StanleyThe intention is that personnel on leave from the British Expeditionary Force should be able to spend at least seven days at their homes. Where Movement Control Officers are satisfied that this is impracticable within the normal period of 10 days in the United Kingdom, they are authorised to grant the necessary extension. This will apply to men with homes in Northern Ireland or elsewhere.
§ 17. Mr. Allan Chapmanasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that soldiers have been forbidden to travel by railway on 20th and 21st March or 25th and 26th March; and whether, in view of the fact that soldiers deserve an Easter holiday no less than other sections of the community, he will allow them to have a fair share of whatever railway transport may be available?
§ Mr. StanleyAt the request of the railway companies, in order to prevent overloading, leave travelling by troops has been restricted on the days mentioned. Special railway facilities have been provided for large numbers of troops to proceed on leave during the Easter period without travelling on these particular days. The restriction will not apply to small parties and individuals.
§ Mr. ChapmanAm I to gather from that reply that they will get rather longer leave?
§ Mr. StanleyIt will be rather longer before Easter and rather shorter after.