NEW ARMY LEAVE SYSTEM

Southland Times, Issue 24873, 13 October 1942, Page 4

NEW ARMY LEAVE SYSTEM

Seven Days Every Two Months (P.A.) WELLINGTON, October 12. 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 tonight that in future soldiers mobilized for home defence other than the regular and temporary staff would be entitled to furlough of seven days every two months, phis half the 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 of single men, to enable them to visit husbands or sons up to six times a year. Local leave during the week and at week-ends would 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 the 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.