§ 22. Lieut.-Colonel Byersasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he will expedite the compassionate release of 1314151 L.A.C. Bolwell, E. K., E. 2 Section, 166 Signal Wing, S.E.A.A.F., whose application was made to his commanding officer on 6th August, since when he has heard nothing.
§ Mr. StracheyThis airman has been granted 28 days' compassionate leave and arrived in this country on 2nd November. I am inquiring into the delay which is stated to have taken place, and will communicate with the hon. and gallant Member.
§ Lieut. -Colonel ByersWhile thanking the Under-Secretary for that reply, may I ask him whether he is aware that this indicates a lack of urgency in the consideration of certain of these compassionate cases at the present time, and whether he cannot take special steps to see that where there is any suspicion of compassionate grounds the application is hastened as much as possible?
§ Mr. StracheyIn the Overseas Commands cases go before tribunals of men and officers, who judge each application without knowing the name of the man concerned. I believe that is the fairest possible way, and I should hate to upset that machinery in any way.
§ Lieut.-Colonel ByersBut will he not hasten the consideration of these cases by the tribunals?
§ Mr. StracheyI will certainly look into that.
§ Mr. StephenIs the Minister aware that there is great disappointment because of the lack of compassion shown by the authorities dealing with compassionate releases?
§ Mr. StracheyI could not agree to that. I would remind the House that there must be a limit to the number of compassionate releases granted, or there will be severe complaints from the airmen as a whole coming out under Class A.