§ Mr. Daggarasked the Secretary of State for War whether he has considered the case of 4202332 C.S.M. Lancefield, R., whose compassionate leave to return home to bury his wife was first asked for by 1227W the local welfare officer on 1st September and was refused on 19th October; whether he is aware that Lancefieldcould not return to settle his home affairs consequent on the death of his wife; although the hon. Member for Abertillery made a Similar request on 12th September, in addition to making two more requests or sending two reminders to his Department; and whether such delays will be avoided in these cases, especially as the war with Germany and Japan has ended.
§ Mr. LawsonThe grant of leave rests with the East Africa Command and I am not yet aware of their decision. The case was first referred to them on 30thAugust, on receipt of a telegraphic application in which, the name was given as Lanfield. A further reference was made more recently after correspondence with my hon. Friend. The initial confusion of names may have caused some delay. I am, however, taking up the matter again.