HC Deb 15 December 1953 vol 522 c37W
83. Brigadier Clarke

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Defence how many 1939–45 war-time deserters are still unaccounted for.

Mr. Birch

10,932 wartime deserters are still unaccounted for. This figure includes men with addresses in the Republic of Ireland and elsewhere overseas.

Brigadier Clarke

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Defence how many men in the three Services took advantage of the amnesty granted to deserters.

Mr. Birch

3,068, including 524 men who were granted protecting certificates in accordance with the concession announced by my right hon. and learned Friend the Home Secretary on 1st April, 1953.