§ 79. Mr. R. Gibsonasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that considerable discontent exists among the parents and friends of men of the British Expeditionary Force in France who are being allowed only 10 days leave twice a year, whereas men serving at home get 14 days every six months in addition to opportunities for week-end leave; and whether he has any statement to make on the subject?
§ Sir V. WarrenderI am not aware of any considerable discontent in this matter. The period of absence from the unit in France is 14 days every six months, subject to exigencies, and it is impossible to increase this generally because the number of men who can be absent at the same time, and the transport available, are limited.
§ Mr. GibsonI understand that that period of 14 days commences from the departure from France and ends on the return to France. Does the hon. Gentleman not recognise that men coming from places such as distant parts of Scotland have the 14 days very severely cut into?