Mr. J. J. Davidson:

asked the Secretary of State for War if he has now fully investigated the case of Private Thomas Laird, an exemplary soldier with four years' service who, after taking part in D-day invasion, being severely wounded at Caen, has had, without any justification, his home raided on two occasions, on the grounds that he was a deserter; and what steps has he taken to punish those responsible for the pain caused to this soldier and his wife.

Sir J. Griģģ:

I had not heard of this case until my hon. Friend put down his Question. If he will send me particulars which enable the man to be identified, inquiries will certainly be made.

Mr. Davidson:

There must be some mistake. I have a receipt from the War Office thanking me for sending the full correspondence a week ago.

Sir J. Griģģ:

Perhaps the hon. Member will let me have the acknowledgment. If there has been some slip up I will trace it but I cannot trace it on the information I have at present. There are five Thomas Lairds known to the 2nd Echelon.

Mr. Davidson:

The information I submitted gives the man's number, regiment and all particulars in regard to this case. If I put down a question a week hence will the right hon. Gentleman be able to answer it?

Sir J. Griģģ:

Perhaps the hon. Member give me the postcard first, Evidently there has been some slip up and I would like to trace the matter.