§ 27. Mr. Pagetasked the Secretary of State for Air why three civilian transport drivers were suspended without pay at Royal Air Force, St. Mawgan, during the period preceding their being found not guilty of theft.
Mr. WardI regret that my inquiries into this matter are not yet completed. I will write to the hon. and learned Gentleman as soon as possible.
I can, however, say that the suspension was terminated after three days and full pay restored.
§ Mr. PagetIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the charges against these men were dismissed without the defence being called, and, where a man is under suspicion, is it the practice to suspend him without pay, as that seems to be a very objectionable practice which was adopted here?
Mr. WardThe hon. and learned Gentleman will appreciate that this was a late notice Question, received only the day before yesterday, and I really have not had time to get the full facts. I should, therefore, be grateful if he would let me write to him about this case.