asked the Secretary of State for War how many newly commissioned National Service Officers are on indefinite leave.

Indefinite leave is not granted in the Army. Circumstances may, however, arise in which an officer is held temporarily on the strength of his depot whilst waiting for shipping or being found suitable employment. In such a case, if there is no temporary employment for him at the Depot, he may be allowed to live at home. Information is not readily available as to the number of such officers at any one time, nor could it be obtained without a disproportionate amount of work.

Would the right hon. Gentleman say what sort of limit of time is set in cases where young officers newly commissioned cannot be employed immediately? Is there any limit of time before they are posted?

That is not the original Question. If the hon. and gallant Member puts it down, I will try to give an answer.