HC Deb 26 March 1908 vol 186 cc1562-3
SIR J. DICKSON-POYNDER (Wiltshire, Chippenham)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether it will be obligatory on all the Yeomanry when joining the Territorial Army to engage for a term of four years; and whether he will issue an Order to enable those yeomen who have already served in the force, whose engagement expires after 1st April and who desire to join the Territorial Army, to engage for one year instead of four years.

MR. HALDANE

As I have previously explained to the House, yeomen, if enrolled before the 18th August, 1901, who have not since come under the Militia and Yeomanry Act, 1901, may either serve for one year from the 31st March, 1908, or sign for the full period of four years. Those serving under the Act of 1901 may elect either to serve for the term required to complete their present period of engagement, re-engagement or re-enlistment, or to sign for the full period of four years.

VISCOUNT HELMSLEY (Yorkshire, N.R., Thirsk)

asked if a man enlisted under the Act of 1901 had already served three years he would have to bind himself to serve in the Territorial Army for another four years?

MR. HALDANE

asked for notice.