HC Deb 15 June 1955 vol 542 cc561-2
3. Mr. Boardman

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that a man of H.M.S. "Warrior" whose return from leave from Manchester to Plymouth, a journey of 288 miles, was delayed by the railway strike, has been given punishment involving eight days' stoppage of pay, despite the efforts on his part to return to ship; and if he will review this sentence.

Mr. J. P. L. Thomas

Yes, Sir. Men who were granted leave from this ship were specially warned that they must make sure of being able to return in time even if the strike took place: that is why those who returned late were punished. However, I have called for a detailed report and intend to look into individual cases.

Mr. Boardman

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this man made the most commendable efforts to return to his ship, including a 17-mile tramp through the night? Is he further aware that discipline of this kind in these circumstances can in the long run only do the Service more harm than good?

Mr. Thomas

The case which the hon. Member has mentioned is obviously one into which I shall be looking very shortly.

Mr. Callaghan

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider these two aspects of the case? First, did this man and others go on leave before the strike started? Secondly, can he tell us whether H.M.S. "Warrior" had any particular mission that she had to fulfil?

Mr. Thomas

I should like notice of the latter part of that supplementary question. In reply to the first part, I think the strike had started when the men left, or I think it was known that it would start. It was a Saturday. I believe the strike started on the Sunday. It was known that if there was a strike the men must do their best to return.

Mr. Callaghan

Further to that question, the Saturday in question was Whit Saturday. So far as I know, it was not known until very late on Saturday evening that the strike was going to start. What time did these men go on leave?

Mr. Thomas

I should require notice of that question. That will be one of the points that I shall inquire into when I consider the cases.