Sir J. D. REESasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether Arthur Ireland, stoker on His Majesty's 54W mine-sweeper "Pontypool," can now be released, since he is needed at home and primâfacie is not wanted for mine-sweeping?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe mine-sweeper "Pontypool" was damaged by the explosion of a mine about six weeks ago. She is being repaired at Malta, and the crew were sent to England on ten days' leave, prior to recommencing mine clearance operations in "Pontypool." The personnel of the Mine Clearance Force all signed an undertaking to serve at home or abroad until 30th November, 1919.
§ Major HENDERSONasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Second-Lieutenant J. M. Gray, Black Watch, is being retained for service in Egypt with the Army of Occupation; and whether he is prepared to issue instructions for this officer's release, in view of the fact that he is assistant minister at Middle Parish Church, Paisley, and that an undertaking was given by the War Office that all ministers of religion in Scotland would be released as soon as possible?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI am not aware of any undertaking regarding priority in demobilisation for ministers of the Church of Scotland. If Lieutenant Gray's services are no longer required in the Army he will be demobilised in due course.
§ Major HENDERSONasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that an application for the compassionate release of Private A. Reid, No. 146684, 57th Battalion, Machine Gun Company, 11th Corps Concentration Camp, was made to the War Office on 19th February and was refused on 21st March; that a subsequent appeal was made on 26th April, when two medical certificates were sent, showing that both the father and the sole remaining brother were both unable to do any work, and that there were therefore no wage-earners in the family; that no reply has been received to this last letter; and whether he is prepared to have this case reconsidered?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThree applications for Private Reid's release on compassionate grounds were received and carefully considered by the War Office, but each was refused, as they did not fulfil the conditions of the instructions issued governing releases on such grounds. I regret that I am unable to reconsider the case.