HC Deb 07 December 1966 vol 737 cc309-10W
83. Mr. Spriggs

asked the Secretary of State for Defence why Private Wetton of the Irish Guards was not brought home for his sister's funeral on 21st November, 1966; and if he will take steps to grant special leave in all such circumstances as those reported to him by the hon. Member for St. Helens on behalf of Mrs. Wetton, mother of this soldier.

Mr. Ennals

Soldiers are not brought back from overseas to attend a funeral unless their presence is essential for the relief of exceptional family hardship or for medical reasons; as I have explained to my hon. Friend there were no such circumstances in this case. My right hon. Friend does not agree that the present rule should be changed.