11. Mr. Dugdaleasked the Secretary of State for War whether, owing to the hardship involved, he will reconsider the case of Private Osell, 114, Dial Lane, West Bromwich, who has applied for release from National Service.
§ Mr. HeadI have carefully reconsidered this case but I can find no grounds for reversing the decision given in my letter of 31st March to the right hon. Member.
Mr. DugdaleIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this man's father died some two months ago, leaving a daughter of 16 and four boys—one aged 11, one 14 and twins of nine; and that one of the boys is seriously ill in hospital? If this is not a compassionate case, will he tell me what is?
§ Mr. HeadAs I understand it, this case falls under two heads—firstly and mainly financial, and secondly, the illness of one brother, which I think is not likely to be prolonged. As far as finance is concerned, there has been no application for a National Service grant nor does Private Osell make any allotment to his mother. As far as the illness is concerned, I am told that his brother is likely to recover and that it is not an incurable illness. We cannot grant compassionate leave from National Service because of widowhood per se.
Mr. DugdaleI fully realise all the difficulties, but does not the right hon. Gentleman think it would be of some help to this woman to have her son at home during a time of exceedingly great hardship?
§ Mr. HeadI have looked into the case, but if the right hon. Gentleman would like to talk to me about any special points I am certainly prepared to consider them. From what I have heard about it, I could not grant this man release at the present time.