§ Mr. Henderson Stewartasked the Secretary of State for India if he will explain the regulations concerning home leave for British officers and men serving in the Indian Army; and whether any reduction in the period of service qualifying for home leave is contemplated.
§ Mr. AmeryI am sending my hon. Friend a copy of my replies to my hon. Friend the Member for the Canterbury Division (Sir W. Wayland)on 14th November, my hon. Friend the Member for the Cathcart Division of Glasgow (Mr. Beattie) on 14th December, and my hon. Friend the Member for Oxford (Mr. Hogg) on 1st February, which explain the position. The efforts of the Commander-in-Chief and the Government of India are at present being devoted to the acceleration of home leave including air trooping, in order that the accumulation of Indian Army officers eligible for 61 days' leave may be worked through as speedily as operational exigencies permit. Until this accumulation is worked through, there can be no question of reducing the five years period qualifying for 61 days' leave. Meanwhile, the 28 days' leave scheme is operating for those with less length of service overseas.