34. Brigadier Clarkeasked the Secretary of State for War why he has abandoned compassionate posting; and when this decision was made.
§ Mr. StracheyThe decision to abolish the system of compassionate posting was notified by Army Council Instruction in November, 1946, and announced by the then Secretary of State for War in the House on 21st January, 1947. He said that with the introduction of a fixed term of National Service as from 1st January, 1947, it became essential that the services of all available personnel should be unrestricted. Deserving compassionate cases, however, can still be, and are being, met by the grant of compassionate leave or release where this is justified.
Brigadier ClarkeDoes not the Minister realise that there have been many compassionate postings since that order was published, and surely they are still necessary in certain difficult cases?
§ Mr. StracheyAs the hon. and gallant Member's question implies, there have 973 no doubt been, in an informal way, compassionate postings since the date of that announcement, which shows that it is being interpreted in a very liberal spirit.
Brigadier ClarkeBut does not the Minister realise that only 10 days ago I received a letter from the Under-Secretary of State for War saying that there would be no more compassionate postings?
§ Mr. StracheyThere has been no change in this matter since November, 1946.