HC Deb 03 February 1942 vol 377 c1028
15. Major Milner

asked the Secretary of State for War whether any reduction in privilege leave is made in consequence of a soldier being granted compassionate leave?

Captain Margesson

Compassionate leave normally counts against the allotment of privilege leave up to a maximum of seven days in any one period. But in cases where compassionate leave is granted as a result of enemy action the first seven days of such leave do not count against the normal allotment of privilege leave.

Mr. G. Strauss

Is it not unfair to take away a man's privilege leave because he has had to visit his wife who is seriously ill for four or five days? Why cannot he have his leave in the ordinary way?

Captain Margesson

We always have to take into consideration the percentage of soldiers away at any one time, otherwise it would not be fair on other men.