asked the Secretary of State for War if, upon the death of a parent or near relative of a soldier serving overseas a request is made that the military authorities should notify the soldier of such death, it is the custom of his Department to accede to such a request; and what charge is made in respect of any signal or other communication.

Normally the family in-form the soldier and may use the special C.S.N. telegrams which next-of-kin can send at United Kingdon inland rates to a soldier wherever he is serving. If exceptionally, for example, where compassionate leave is also involved, the military authorities send a signal, no charge is made.