§ 56. Mr. Jannerasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that some National Service men who had served six months with the British Army of the Rhine were due for their privilege leave on 7th September; that this leave was cancelled because of manuœvres which were due to begin on 15th September; that some National Service men have not had their leave after eight months' service with the British Army of the Rhine; and if he will arrange that, in future, privilege leave due to National Service men shall be granted at the date it becomes due.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for War (Mr. Fitzroy Maclean)This leave is granted as a privilege when military duties permit, and as a general rule commanding officers try to get their men off on leave as soon as they become eligible. Manœuvres are, however, an essential part of military training, and it was reasonable to defer leave at that time. My right hon. Friend does not wish to interfere with the discretion of the local commander in this matter.
§ Mr. JannerWill the Minister take this excellent opportunity to do something really worth while as one of his first duties, and that is to ensure that, where possible, National Service men shall not be disappointed about the times of their leaves especially as their parents make special arrangements for them to come home at these times. Will the hon. Gentleman particularly inquire into those cases 1035 where leaves have been deferred two or three times and families have been unable to alter the arrangements they have made?
§ Mr. MacleanEvery effort is made to get National Service men in Germany off on leave as soon as the six months are completed, even though they have no right to leave immediately the time is up. If the hon. Member will let me have details of special cases they will certainly be considered on their merits.