HC Deb 22 May 1946 vol 423 cc322-4
36. Mr. Driberg

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if he is aware that 1873785 L.A.C. A. R. Fox, who was due for demobilisation in the United Kingdom before 30th April, left 320 M.U., R.A.F., India, on 24th March, went through the demobilisation process at Worli and attended a boat-list parade on 2nd April, and was then informed that he was to be held in India for questioning: and if, in view of the fact that he took no part in the recent R.A.F. strikes, other than being a member of a delegation formed at the express wish of the officer conducting the investigation into them, and that he had not been questioned by 5th May, he will state whether this man has now left India and the reasons for the delay in his release.

Mr. Strachey

I am still awaiting a full report regarding this airman. I have again asked for an explanation by signal and when it is received I will circulate a statement in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Captain Francis Noel-Baker

Is my hon. Friend aware that many Members of this House are concerned about reports reaching them regarding the methods of investigation into the R.A.F. strikes, and has he looked at the matter very closely and satisfied himself that these methods are, in fact, in order?

Mr. Strachey

I have looked at the matter with great attention and concern, but I am not in a position to add any- thing to the reply circulated last week in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

41. Mr. Beswick

asked the Under- Secretary of State for Air, if 1890708 Sergeant P. R. Woodmore, of whose case he has been informed, can be demobilised in his home country of Uganda.

Mr. Strachey

This airman is eligible for repatriation to his home country when he is demobilized

44. Mr. C. S. Taylor

asked the Under- Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that a pilot in the R.A.F., who contracted tuberculosis in Bombay in December, 1945, and who was boarded to receive treatment in South Africa, is still in hospital in India awaiting transport; and how much longer he will have to wait before receiving proper treatment.

Mr. Strachey

If the hon. Member will let me have the name of this man I will make immediate inquiries. The responsibility for the transfer of T.B. cases from India rests with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War, who controls hospital ships. I am in touch with him about this problem.

Mr. Taylor

I understand that this man is one of many, and may I be assured that if I do give his name no action will be taken which will be prejudicial to him?

Mr. Strachey

Yes, certainly.