§ 51. Mr. Piratinasked the Minister of Defence, in connection with the 748 men of the three Services who are serving sentences for desertion, how many of these sentences have been decreased subsequent to review; and whether he will give in detail the lengths of sentences being served by these men.
§ Mr. AlexanderI regret that this information is not readily available.
§ Mr. PiratinCould the Minister make it available in due course, for is he not aware that this is a matter of great importance to 748 men, who feel that they are serving longer sentences merely because they have been caught, while others, who are giving themselves up, are getting reduced sentences?
§ Mr. AlexanderWhat the hon. Member asks for is a detailed return of each of 748 cases, which would take a great deal of time. I have already given an assurance in regard to the regular review of all such sentences.