§ 51. Mr. WATTasked the Prime Minister whether, in inquiring into the number of unmarried men who have not attested, he will see that a differentiation is made between unmarried men who have no responsibilities and unmarried men who have in many instances greater responsibilities than many married men, in view of the fact that such information can be got from the National Register?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Asquith)Instructions which are being issued for the administration of the group system provide for careful consideration being given to cases of the kind mentioned in the question.
§ Mr. CHAPLINI wish to ask the Prime Minister if he is in a position, or likely to be in a position, to give any further information with regard to the recruiting returns before the House adjourns for Christmas?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe matter was under the consideration of the. Cabinet to-day, but they were not able to complete their deliberations. I do not think I can hold out any hope of being able to make a statement to the House before the Adjournment.
§ Mr. HODGEWould it not be possible to give the aggregate figures, because of 449 the moral influence that they would have amongst our Allies, as well as in the mind of the enemy?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat has been suggested, but I am afraid that if we gave the aggregate figures without the details it might afterwards be said that we were misleading the public, and that, I think, should be avoided.
Sir HENRY DALZIELDoes the right hon. Gentleman contemplate being able to give any information to the House or to the public before the House reassembles?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI think it ought to be given in the House.