HC Deb 27 August 1914 vol 66 cc157-8
66. Major MEYSEY-THOMPSON

asked the Under-Secretary for War whether men now undergoing sentences for various minor offences will be offered the chance of redeeming their character and serving their country by volunteering for the new Army; and, if so, will these men be offered a remission of the whole or part of their sentences; and, in any case, can their military training be commenced immediately?

Mr. TENNANT

General officers commanding-in-chief have already been informed that they have power under the King's Regulations to release men undergoing sentences for minor offences. Men so released would have the remainder of their punishment remitted, and are, therefore, immediately available for military training.