asked the Minister of Defence whether he will amend the existing regulations governing extended service schemes so as to provide that in the case of the death of an airman, sailor or soldier, whilst serving on the Regular portion of an extended service engagement, a proportionate part of the gratuity which would have been due to him on the normal expiration of his service may be paid to his heirs.

No, Sir. The regulation to which the hon. Member refers derives from the fact that the gratuities which are payable at the end of extended or short service engagements are intended primarily for resettlement. It is of long standing and is well understood by the men concerned.

Is the Minister aware that there is some feeling over this matter, and will he not give further consideration to it?

I have not heard of any feeling over the matter.