§ 40. Mr. Prescottasked the Secretary of State for War how many R.A.S.C. clerks now in the Middle East Command have had their releases deferred; when the last draft of reinforcements arrived: and what steps are being taken to amelior ate the position.
§ Mr. ShinwellUp to 31st May, 223 R.A.S.C. clerks in Middle East Command had had their release deferred. Drafts of R.A.S.C. clerks were due to arrive on 4th and 10th June. Every effort is being made to improve the position, but the present rate of release from the Army is so high that there is an increasing shortage of skilled men in various Corps.