§ Mr. KINGasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Private Thomas Simpson, No. 56,471, 1470W 21st Cheshires, Labour Battalion, D Company, having been discharged from the Army on medical grounds on 6th October, 1914, was arrested and fined £2 at Manchester County Police Court on 7th August, 1916; that, in spite of his appeals and protests, he was sent overseas; but that, on representations made by his relatives and friends, instructions were issued for his discharge on the ground that he was excepted from the Military Service Acts; whether Private Thomas Simpson is still in the Army; if so, when will he be released; and what compensation for his illegal arrest and for the indignity offered him will be given?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONInstructions have been issued for this man to be sent home forthwith, and his discharge will be carried out on arrival in this country. In view of the fact that his case was decided by the Civil Courts, the question of compensation does not appear to arise.