§ Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCKasked the Secretary of State for War if he will order the immediate demobilisation of Private George Smith, No. 114831, Royal Army Medical Corps, Officers' Hospital, Nasreih, Cairo, whose mother is aged seventy-four, and a cripple?
§ Mr. FORSTERAn application was received by the War Office for the release of Private Smith on compassionate grounds, but as it did not come within any of the categories prescribed in the instructions in force, it was refused. I would, how ever, add that an extension of the Regulations governing releases on compassion ate grounds is now under consideration. If it is found possible to extend these Regulations, and this man's case is covered by the new instructions, a fresh application, if submitted, will be duly considered.
§ Mr. N. MACLEANasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Private John G. Hunter, No. 393, 2nd Cameron Highlanders, D Company, Hut 61, Dreghorn Camp, Edinburgh, is only seventeen years of age; that his legal guardian made application for his release on 3rd July, and received a reply on 21st July that the necessary action was being taken; and what steps he will take to return this boy to his home at the earliest possible date?
§ Mr. FORSTERInquiries are being made in this case, and the hon. Member will be informed of the result as soon as possible.