§ Sir H. GREENWOODasked the Minister of National Service whether the concession as set forth in paragraph 4 (b) of the Military Service Act (No. 2) of 1918 affects all men discharged on medical grounds under paragraph 392 (iii.), paragraph 392 (xxv.), or other paragraph of the King's Regulations, in addition to the men discharged under paragraph 392 (xvi.); and, if not, whether he will issue instructions to that effect?
§ Sir A. GEDDESThe concession strictly speaking applies only to men discharged under sub-paragraphs (iii.) and 325W (xvi.) of paragraph (392) King's Regulations. It is, however, extended administratively to time-expired men discharged under sub-paragraph (xxi.) while in receipt of pensions awarded on account of illness attributable to active service. I am always prepared to consider the case of any man who claims that his discharge was in fact due to disablement or ill-health.
§ Sir H. GREENWOODasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the numerous regulations relative to the starting of new businesses militate against the settlement in civil life of discharged sailors and soldiers who are unable to follow their pre-war occupations by reason of wounds or sickness contracted in the service of the country; and whether, having regard to the importance of the question of the rehabilitation of such men in civil life, he will give special facilities to help them in this respect?
§ Sir A. GEDDESMy right hon. Friend has asked me to reply. I presume that my hon. and gallant Friend refers to the Retail Business (Licensing) Order. No licence is refused under that Order to a discharged sailor or soldier unless the proposed new business appears likely to injure the interests of a man serving with the Forces.
§ Mr. HOGGEasked the President of the Local Government Board whether the Civil Liabilities Committee have yet drawn up any scheme for the rehabilitation of discharged and demobilised men in civilian life?
§ Mr. HAYES FISHERI appointed a Special Committee to consider the question of continuing the Civil Liabilities scheme after the War in connection with the general scheme of demobilisation. The Committee have reported, and their recommendations are at present under consideration.