§ 13. Mr. Burkeasked the Secretary of State for Air how many days' leave is granted to men who return to this country after more than two years' service in the Middle East.
§ Captain BalfourMen with over two years' but less than four years' continuous service overseas are eligible for 21 days' disembarkation leave on return to the United Kingdom. Those with four years' overseas service or more are entitled to 28 days. Disembarkation leave is subject to the exigencies of the service but where it is not possible for the full period to be taken immediately, the balance is allowed as soon as circumstances permit.
§ Mr. BurkeIs the Minister aware that there is great dissatisfaction because in some units some of the men get two weeks or three weeks, and some only one week? Can he see that this privilege is administered more equitably?
§ Captain BalfourNo, Sir, I am not aware that there is great dissatisfaction. We have had to post men to many units that have had to go to France. Some of the men have come recently from overseas and are in skilled trades. They have taken that decision loyally, appreciating the needs of the Service at the present time.
§ Mr. BurkeIs it not a fact that men who have served the same period, who are in this country and sometimes live in the same towns get varying periods of leave?
§ Captain BalfourTwo men from the same town may be in different trades, and our technical requirements for different trades vary according to the formations we have to send overseas.
§ Professor SavoryAre the men allowed to spend this leave in Ulster?
§ Mr. SpeakerThat is another question.