SOLDIERS’ LEAVE

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXIX, Issue 20913, 13 October 1942, Page 2

SOLDIERS’ LEAVE

HOME DEFENCE UNITS SEVEN DAYS’ FURLOUGH EVERY TWO MONTHS (P.A.) WELLINGTON, this day. On the recommendation of a conference of the principal staff officers of Army Headquarters, divisional commanders and district commanders, the War Cabinet has approved of an alteration in the arrangements providing for army leave. The Minister of Defence, the Hon. F. Jones, said last night that in future soldiers mobilised for home defence, other than regular and temporary staff, would be 'entitled to furlough of seven days every two months, plus half travelling time from camp to home and return. Free travelling warrants would be issued. In addition, authority had been granted for the issuing of travelling permits, but not free warrants to wives or mothers to enable them to visit their husbands or sons up to six times a year. Local leave during the week and at week-ends will be granted as generously as possible.

The Minister added that the alterations would, of necessity, be subject to the tactical situation and the ability of transport facilities to handle the traffic. In some units, such as coast artillery, anti-aircraft artillery and guards it would be necessary to adjust the schedule of leave to meet local conditions.