§ 1. Mr. John Dugdaleasked the Secretary of State for War why it is not possible to release Private E. J. Goddard, No. 2554984, from military duties; and the nature of the military duties performed by this soldier of 43 years of age, which make it necessary to retain him in the Army?
§ Captain MargessonCareful inquiries have been made into this case, and it has been decided that an extension of the six months' compassionate release previously granted to this soldier would not be justified. The soldier is at present employed on general duties.
§ Mr. DugdaleIs the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that this man has for the past six months been employed on work of national importance in a Midlands factory? Cannot he reconsider his decision?
§ Captain MargessonI have already given six months' release in this case. This is an A1 medical category man; he has made no application for employment as a tradesman while in the Army, and in these circumstances, I am afraid I cannot do anything more.