§ 2. Major W. MURRAYasked the Secretary of State for War whether Quartermaster-sergeant Morrison, 2nd Royal Highlanders, has, through the exigencies of military service, been separated from his wife for the period of six years, except during a few weeks in August, 1914, and a month in December, 1919; and, if so, whether this man can now be granted leave at proper intervals so long as his regiment remains in Germany or on foreign service?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI have no reason to doubt the accuracy of the statement made in the first part of the hon. and gallant Member's question as, owing to the exigencies of the Service, such cases did occur during the War. As regards the last part of the question, the grant of leave to all ranks abroad is entirely at the discretion of the General Officer Commanding the Troops in the locality concerned, but I understand that facilities for leave are afforded at regular intervals. From the 1st April of this year, however, all troops proceeding on leave from abroad must defray their own travelling expenses.