18. Mr. Astorasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in considering the transfer home of British officers and men who were mobilised from the reserves in India at the outbreak of war, consideration will be given, wherever possible, to the length of time they have been continuously out of England before the war.
§ Sir J. GriggIn reckoning the period an officer or soldier of the British Army has served overseas the Army can, I regret, only take account of such time as they have spent on the active list.
Mr. AstorCannot my right hon. Friend consider, at least on compassionate grounds, allowing commanding officers to exercise their discretion?
§ Sir J. GriggI think when there is a shortage of ships, people who have actually served in the Army abroad must get first preference.