§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILL (Donegal, S.)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that soldier reservists in Section D), who were enlisted for home service only, have been sent on active service in South Africa, and that the Military authorities in South Africa are, notwithstanding protests, compelling these men to continue in the service for a year beyond the termination of the period of their re-engagement; and, whether, having regard to the effect of this action on the soldier reservists belonging to Section D who are thus detained from their homes, he will take steps to see that the provisions of the agreement under which these men re-engaged in the service will be strictly observed.
LORD STANLEYThe hon. Member is under a misapprehension. These men undertake to serve in the United Kingdom or elsewhere for a period of four years, or for a further period of 12 months or less, if so directed by the competent Military authority.
§ MR. SWIFT MACNEILLAre these men protesting against being kept on active service? Are they not anxious to return home?