§ 83. Mr. Stokesasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Major Alan Reid-Kellett, D.S.O., M.C., employed as liaison officer in connection with the construction of Militia camps at Devizes and subsequently as garrison engineer at Larkhill in a civilian capacity was, subsequent to his engagement in the latter work, dismissed from his job on account of reports which he had made concerning the extravagance, waste and irregularities going on in the construction of camps at Devizes; and whether he will take immediate steps to see that Major 2129 Reid-Kellett is reinstated in his employment at Larkhill or re-engaged in some other suitable work?
§ The Financial Secretary to the War Office (Sir Victor Warrender)My right hon. Friend has satisfied himself that he would not be justified in ordering the re-engagement of Major Reid-Kellett.
§ Mr. StokesIs the Financial Secretary aware that this man was employed as a civilian, and not as a soldier, and that he was dismissed from his second job on account of the action taken in the first job? Does he think that should take place without any proper inquiry? The man is now penniless in spite of distinguished service in the last war.
§ Sir V. WarrenderAll these considerations have been taken into account by my right hon. Friend, and I do not think I can add anything to what I have said.
§ Mr. StokesDoes the hon. Gentleman admit that there has not been a proper inquiry into the facts of the case?
§ Sir V. WarrenderNo, Sir.
§ Mr. StokesThere has not been.