RELEASE FROM THE ARMY

Press, Volume LXXVIII, Issue 23812, 4 December 1942, Page 4

RELEASE FROM THE ARMY

Men For Essential Work

NEW PROCEDURE TO BE ADOPTED

(P.A.) WELLINGTON, December 3. Changes in procedure to effect closer co-ordination between the Army and the armed forces appeal boards for the release of men for employment in industry were announced to-night by the Minister of Defence (the Hon. F, Jones).

He said it had been arranged that when an appeal board made a recommendation for a man’s release it would be immediately telegraphed to his unit, and if release was practicable the unit commander would grant a period of provisional leave (generally 28 days) and send him to the place of employment. At the same time, a notice would be sent to the appeal board, so that a check could be made to ensure that the man took up the employment. The Minister explained that if the leave recommended by a board was approved by Army Headquarters, the provisional leave would be confirmed and any extension communicated to the man and the board.

"In some instances, however, it will not be practicable to grant the leave recommended,” continued the Minister, “For example, if a man is sick, on leave, or is a key man in his unit, the commanding officer will at once inform the board through the local area officer and also Army Headquarters. The case will then receive special consideration at Army Headquarters and by the Director of National Service, and a final decision made as soon as possible." Every reasonable effort was being made by the Army to assist employers by releasing those men who could be spared and by ensuring that as little delay as possible took place. Employers could assist materially by giving prompt notice to the local appeal board or district manpower officer if a man did not report or if he left his employment during his period of leave. In the latter case prompt action would be taken to return the man to camp.