HC Deb 07 July 1947 vol 439 cc1770-1
8. Mr. C. S. Taylor

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that Lieut.-Colonel F. V. Stonham, I.M.S., applied for an extension of leave until the middle of November to enable him to sit for the F.R.C.S. examination in November; that leave has been refused; and what are the reasons for the refusal.

Mr. A. Henderson

I am aware that the leave in question was refused by the Government of India, presumably on the ground that Lieut.-Colonel Stonham's services were required in the Middle East, and the hon. Member will appreciate that an officer's private interests in such a case must give way to the needs of the Service. The position has, however, been fundamentally altered by the advancement of the date for the transfer of power, and I am asking the Government of India to examine Lieut.-Colonel Stonham's position afresh in the light of the most recent constitutional developments. Meanwhile this officer will remain on leave.

Mr. Taylor

I thank the right hon. and learned Gentleman for his reply, and as I believe Colonel Stonham is due to return to duty tomorrow, may I telephone him today to tell him to remain on leave?

Mr. Henderson

Yes, Sir.