§ 51. Mr. George Craddockasked the Secretary of State for War why 22965124 Private Raymond Smith, Ordnance Depot, Tripoli, Middle East Land Forces (1), is held under arrest; and if he will, in view of recent medical reports on this soldier, order his immediate discharge.
§ The Secretary of State for War (Mr. Antony Head)Private Smith was tried by court-martial on 15th March for striking a superior officer and drunkenness and is now serving a sentence of 84 days' detention. He is also awaiting trial for further offences which he is alleged to have committed whilst undergoing sentence. I have called for a full report on this case with particular reference to the soldier's medical condition and will write to the hon. Member as soon as I get it.
§ Mr. CraddockWhilst thanking the Minister for promising that report, may I ask if he will look further into the low mental category of this man? Will he not agree that the fact that he is on foreign service, coupled with his mental state, may have increased this man's hazards?