HC Deb 16 November 1948 vol 458 c181
17. Mr. Piratin

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he would review the policy now prevailing of refusing to grant compassionate leave to unmarried soldiers desirous of marrying the mothers of their expected babies, in order to legitimise them before birth.

Mr. Shinwell

It is not the policy to refuse to grant compassionate leave in these circumstances, and each case is considered on its individual merits.

Mr. Piratin

Is the Secretary of State aware that I am very grateful to hear that reply, and that I shall take the opportunity of sending him two cases with which I have dealt recently and which were rejected?