HC Deb 05 June 1902 vol 108 cc1542-3
CAPTAIN NORTON (Newington, W.)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether, having regard to the recommendation of Sheriff Guthrie, of Glasgow, to a thrice-convicted burglar that he should join the Army to retrieve his character, he will consider the advisability of issuing regulations prohibiting the enlistment of men of bad character, seeing that respectable parents dissuade their sons from joining the colours mainly in consequence of the fact that they will be associated with undesirable companions.

MR. BRODRICK

Will the hon. and gallant Member kindly refer to paragraph 105 of the Recruiting Regulations, where he will find ample instructions on this matter.

CAPTAIN NORTON

Is it not the fact that large numbers of these men are enlisted in the Army?

MR. BRODRICK

It is not the fact that large numbers are, but it is in the power of the Commanding Officer to discharge such men if necessary.