HC Deb 17 November 1954 vol 533 c393
42. Commander Maitland

asked the Minister of Defence if he will consider extending the free travel available for close relations of men killed or dying on service in the United Kingdom to enable the relatives to attend the funeral, to the relatives of men killed or dying while on service in Germany.

Mr. H. Macmillan

The present practice, which has been followed over a number of years, has recently been carefully reviewed. I sympathise with the object my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind, but I regret that I cannot accede to his request.

Commander Maitland

Does not the recent arrangement for us to keep a permanent force in Germany alter the situation and the considerations which have governed this matter in the past? Can my right hon. Friend tell me how much this proposal would cost?

Mr. Macmillan

I will certainly look at the matter again, but my hon. and gallant Friend will appreciate that there are difficulties in making distinctions between one overseas station and another.

Mr. Robens

In looking at the matter again, will the right hon. Gentleman also consider the question of the return of the bodies of soldiers and the disgracefully meagre amount that is sent to their dependants so that the bodies may be buried at home.