§ 22. Captain Kerbyasked the Secretary of State for War how many of the missing Army reservists, who failed to return from leave to join the troopship "Asturias" on 24th and 28th October, are still absent without leave; how many have been apprehended; what form of disciplinary action has been taken against them; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John HareNo reservists are still absent without leave; 32 have been apprehended. In all other cases it was found on inquiry that the soldier had already set off to rejoin his unit or had been granted compassionate or sick leave by his unit. Of those who had overstayed their leave many missed the ship by a matter of hours and only a few were absent for more than two days.
Disciplinary action is a matter for commanding officers. I have, however, called for a report on the 32 men who were apprehended and will write to my hon. and gallant Friend.