68. Mr. F. HALLasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will state what were the numbers of persons in Australia between the inclusive ages of twelve and Fourteen, fourteen and eighteen, eighteen and twenty-five, and twenty-five and twenty-six, respectively, liable for military service in 1912 under the Defence Act, 1911; the percentage of persons so liable to the whole population of Australia; and the total cost involved in the year named in the maintenance of such force?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Harcourt)I am unable to answer the hon. Member's question as the annual report on the working of the Defence Act of Australia for 1912 has not yet reached me.
Mr. F. HALLHas the result so far been satisfactory, notwithstanding that the service is of a compulsory nature?
§ Mr. HARCOURTI think I ought to have notice of that question.
Sir G. PARKERAs the right hon. Gentleman's only reason for not giving the information is that the report has not yet been received, will the right hon. Gentleman be able to answer my later question?
§ Mr. HARCOURTI do not know what question the hon. Member refers to.
§ Sir W. BYLESCan the right hon. Gentleman give any information as to the extent of the resistance, or how many Quakers have been imprisoned?
§ Mr. HARCOURTNo, Sir.