HC Deb 18 April 1905 vol 145 cc442-3
* GENERAL LAURIE

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he can state the ages of the recruits enrolled since the nine years enlistment for colour service came into operation; and whether these ages are only taken by statement of the recruit or by report of the medical officer.

MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

The ages of the recruits mentioned were as follows for those taken up to 31st March, 1905:—

Under 18 59
18 to 19 6,185
19 to 20 2,070
20 to 21 1,044
21 to 22 636
22 to 23 430
23 to 24 345
24 to 25 296
Over 25 44.
The ages of recruits are those given by them on the attestation papers. If the medical officer thinks the age manifestly incorrect, it is for the approving officer to elicit the correct age.

GENERAL LAURIE

Does that include the ages of recruits enlisted in the garrison battalions?

MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

There have been none enlisted.

MR. JAMES O'CONNOR (Wicklow, W.)

How many recruits were under seventeen years of age?

MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

I cannot say, but they are included with those, under eighteen.