§ Mr. C. EDWARDSasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he is aware that an application has been made to the 429W Commanding Officer, H.M.S. "Walrus," by Reuben James Lush, engine-room artificer, M12,367, for discharge; if he is aware that since the application was made the father has died, leaving a widow, a brother who is ill at home and will be unable to do any work for a considerable time, and also a young sister; and, under these circumstances, will he favourably consider the application so as to enable the applicant to return home to help to maintain this family, which is now without means of support, his former employer being willing to re-employ him immediately after his release?
§ Mr. LONGNo application has been received at the Admiralty for Lush's release. If the circumstances have altered since this man first made application to his commanding officer, the proper course is for him to represent the facts to that officer, who will inquire into the facts, and, if he considers the case sufficiently urgent, forward it through the local Flag Officer to the Admiralty for special consideration. It will be understood that every such case must be dealt with on its merits—due consideration being had to the needs of the Service—and that no guarantee can be given that Lush's application will be granted.