HC Deb 17 December 1946 vol 431 cc334-5W
Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will consider the suspension of the sentence of two years' imprisonment, which is now being served by 14030901 Sapper J. Malter, in No. 1 Military Prison and Detention Barracks, Headley, in view both of the extreme youth of this soldier and the circumstances leading up to this charge.

Mr. Bellenger

A review of this soldier's case will be held as soon as certain documents are received from India. All the factors will be taken into account including those referred to in the Question.

Mr. N. Macpherson

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will arrange for the immediate repatriation, on compassionate grounds, of 2933797 Corporal S. N. Henderson, R.A.M.C, H.Q., B.M.A., Tripolitania, particulars of whose case have been sent to him by the hon. and gallant Member for Dumfries.

Mr. Bellenger

The news of the death of Corporal Henderson's father was sent to Middle East on 9th December. As soon as the further details were received from the hon. and gallant Member and inquiries had been made about Mrs. Henderson's illness a cable was sent to Middle East recommending Corporal Henderson's return in the highest category. The decision rests with headquarters Middle East and it is possible that they may have sent him home as a result of his own earlier application.

Mr. Irving

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that no dependant's allowance has been paid to the wife of 19095643 Private B. J. Muir, who joined the forces on 31st October; and if he will take steps to expedite this payment.

Mr. Bellenger

It has not been possible to trace a soldier of the name quoted but I presume that the inquiry refers to 19095643 Private B. J. Mein who joined for service on 7th November, 1946. This soldier is under 21 years of age and is not, therefore, entitled to marriage allowance. He was, however, advised that he may apply to the Ministry of Pensions for a War Service grant if he is prepared to make an allotment of 14s. a week from his pay and he has now agreed to do this. A new paybook for the increased allotment has therefore been issued to Mrs. Mein and the question of War Service Grant is being taken up with the Ministry of Pensions.