§ 72. Major Markham:asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the weekly sleeping-out pass which has been such a valued privilege for all ranks is now refused to members of the Auxiliary Territorial Service unless they are mar- 1164 ried, thus preventing others from spending a night at their homes; and whether he will cause this ban to be lifted?
§ Mr. A. HendersonNo general instructions has been issued curtailing privileges enjoyed by all ranks of the A.T.S. Sleeping-oat passes have always been granted at the discretion of the officer commanding unit, not necessarily every week, subject to the exigencies of the Service, and no regulation is imposed on units as to the number of times or conditions under which these should be granted. If my hon. and gallant Friend has any particular cases in mind, I will gladly look into them if he will send me particulars.
§ Major MarkhamIs the Minister aware that in a great part of the Eastern Command there has been an entire ban on sleeping-out passes—which really means going-home passes—for unmarried members of the A.T.S.? This order is resented. Will he go into the matter, and get the order countermanded?
§ Mr. HendersonI will certainly look into it.
§ Mr. E. WalkdenWill my hon. and learned Friend look into the position in Northern Command at the same time?
§ Mr. HendersonIf my hon. Friend will send me any particulars, I will certainly look into them.