HC Deb 18 December 1941 vol 376 c2066
37. Mr. Evelyn Walkden

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what proportion of the staff of the offices at present evacuated to seaside and provincial towns will be granted leave, with or without travel vouchers, during Christmas week?

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Captain Crookshank)

Instructions have been issued that no leave is to be granted to civil servants which involves long distance railway travel between 24th and 28th December inclusive. An exception is made in the case of compassionate leave. This action corresponds with that taken with regard to members of His Majesty's Forces.

Mr. Walkden

Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that, while such instructions may have been issued, large numbers of civil servants in certain areas which I could mention to him privately have themselves hired public service vehicles from private contractors, and that journeys are to be made 240 miles to London next week?

Captain Crookshank

I am afraid I know nothing about that.

Mr. Walkden

But did you issue the passes?