HC Deb 12 December 1944 vol 406 cc1059-60W
Dr. Little

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in the case of British soldiers who have escaped from Japanese prison camps and reached this country, he will arrange that these men are given extended leave and not sent overseas again; and whether he will allow these soldiers to tell the story of the sufferings they endured to the world.

Mr. Butcher

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will give an option for discharge to men rescued from a torpedoed Japanese vessel after captivity in the Far East.

Sir J. Grigg

These men are given six weeks leave and are retained on the Home Establishment for six months. During this time they undergo courses of rehabili- tation. They are then liable to be sent overseas in any capacity for which they are medically fit. They will not, however, be sent to the Far Eastern theatre.