§ Colonel YATEasked the Secretary of State for War what is the period of demobilisation leave granted to officers on demobilisation; what is the average time that elapses between the demobilisation of an officer and the payment to him of the gratuity that is due; and what steps are taken to enable demobilised officers to live during that time?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLNo demobilisation leave is granted to officers. The gratuities, which are paid by the Army agents, were all ordered to be paid as soon as possible after the 4th August last, and I understand they have practically all been paid
§ Mr. N. MACLEANasked the Secretary of State for War whether Lance-Corporal Philips Hughes, No. 553056. I.W.T.R.E., who was demobilised in Mal, 1919 has not received either his credits or gratuity; whether he can explain the cause of the de- 1058W lay; and whether he can expedite the payment to enable this soldier having it before Christmas?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI think further inquiry will show the hon. Member that he has been misinformed. This soldier's gratuity was deposited in the Post Office Savings Bank in May and was withdrawn in June. Apart from the gratuity, he left the service considerably in debt.