HC Deb 01 December 1942 vol 385 c986
22. Sir J. Jarvis

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that a young officer, whose name has been forwarded to him, was commissioned in the 1st Battalion, Suffolk Regiment, in January last, and given embarkation leave; that he overstayed his leave and communicated with his Department registering objection to serving overseas; that he was permitted to resign his commission and take work on a farm without any court-martial; and whether he will prevent in future this method of avoiding service?

Sir J. Grigg

I am aware of the facts referred to in the Question, and I deplore the action taken by this man. He will, however, not escape his liabilities for military service. He will now no doubt be called up in the usual way under the National Service Acts.

Major-General Sir Alfred Knox

Has any inquiry been made into the matter as to why the officer has been let off?

Sir J. Grigg

Inquiry is being made into the suggestion that he overstayed his leave.