HC Deb 26 March 1946 vol 421 cc200-1
67. Mr. York asked

the Secretary of State for War why soldiers are being sent from Austria to the Middle East for courses in radio, when the same course could be given in this country.

Mr. Lawson

Men from B.A.O.R., Gibraltar, Italy and Austria, as well as those at Home, are sent on courses in this country so far as the capacity of the Schools permits. In the particular case of one R.A.C. unit in Austria, it is a more satisfactory arrangement to send men on Radio courses in the Middle East, because the personnel and equipment for this and other types of R.A.C. training are available in the Middle East, and because it is desirable to keep together men from the formation of which this unit is a part.

Mr. York

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is exactly double the distance from Austria to the Middle East as to this country, and is he not further aware that there is an added advantage in giving the men some period of service at home? Will he not increase the accommodation in this country, rather than send the men on these long journeys?

Mr. Lawson

I will have another look at the point made by the hon. Member, but it is important that units should be kept together.

68. Mr. York

asked the Secretary of State for War why soldiers from Austria are having their L.I.A.P. postponed in order to send them on courses to the Middle East.

Mr. Lawson

If the hon. Member will send me details of any case where L.I.A.P. appears to have been postponed without adequate reasons, I will have it investigated.

Mr. York

Are we to take it that L.I.A.P. will not be postponed in order that men should go on these courses?

Mr. Lawson

Generally speaking, it is not postponed. There are cases in which, of course, repatriation is made available, but that is another matter altogether.

Mr. York

In view of the statement which the right hon. Gentleman has made and of his answer to the last Question, will he not review the situation in regard to sending men on courses to the Middle East rather than allow them to come home?

Mr. Lawson

I will make inquiries to see whether my intention is not being carried out in this matter.