§ 8. Mr. Manderasked the Secretary of State for War the reason for the long delay, from 8th February till 21st April, 1941, in giving consideration to the case of 2nd-Lieutenant H. D. Pullein-Thompson, who was informed that his period of absence from duty on full pay after illness had terminated on 2nd February; and whether, in view of the importance in cases where the facts are disputed, he will give directions for more rapid action in future, owing to the difficulties likely to be experienced by officers under these circumstances?
§ Captain MargessonThe delay to which my hon. Friend refers was due to the fact that it was necessary to obtain full reports of the medical history of this case through the Command. I would not like my hon. Friend to think, however, that the more urgent aspects of the case were not being considered in the meantime because authority was given on 14th March for the continuance of the officer's pay up to 2nd May. As regards the second part of the Question, the importance of dealing promptly with cases of this kind has been impressed on all concerned, and further instructions on this subject have been issued in the last few days.
§ Mr. ManderDo I understand that this officer's pay has ceased from 2nd May?
§ Captain MargessonYes, Sir. He was given an extended period for a further three months.