HC Deb 13 February 1963 vol 671 cc208-9W
Captain Kerby

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty if, in view of the family problems now under reconsideration by the First Lord, he will give orders for Steward Mason, Royal Navy, to be flown home from the Far East on compassionate leave.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

No. We have already allowed his wife and family to retain this married quarter for four months beyond the normal maximum term of occupancy of three years which applies whether or not the husband has been drafted overseas. The quarter is now wanted for another rating's family. I do not consider that Steward Mason's problems in this connection are such as to warrant interfering with his commander-in-chief's discretion to grant compassionate leave, if Steward Mason wishes to apply for it.