§ MR M. J. FLAVIN (Kerry, N)I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War if he is aware that a boy named William O'Dell has recently enlisted in 285 the Royal Munster Fusiliers at Tralee; and whether, in view of the fact that he is under the age of 18, and that no adequate inquiries were made by the police authorities of the family of the soldier as to his assistance being necessary for the support of the family, consisting of six people, as also of the permanent disablement of the soldier's father, his discharge will be ordered by the War Office authorities?
§ MR. BRODRICKAs William O'Dell was up to the standard of enlistment, his retention or discharge rests with the general officer commanding the district. That officer, after making full inquiries, decided to retain him in the Army. It appears that his father is well able to work, and one of his sons is in good employment.
§ MR. FLAVINWill the right hon. Gentleman say what is the prescribed age for recruits joining the Army?
§ MR. BRODRICKEighteen. But if a young man is under 18, and is found to be well up to the standard, lie is not then entitled to be discharged from the Army.
§ MR. FLAVINIs the right hen. Gentleman aware that the birth certificate of this soldier has been sent to the War Office, showing that he is under 18 years of age?
§ MR. BRODRICKYes; I have been so informed. He is under 18, but he is up to the standard of 18, and he is not entitled to be discharged.
§ CAPTAIN DONELAN (Cork, E.)Is there any limit as to age?
§ MR. BRODRICKwas understood to say that if a youth was under 17, it was usual to discharge him on discovering his age.