HC Deb 05 July 1915 vol 73 c24
44. Mr. W. THORNE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether men of the Royal Berkshire Regiment, stationed at Codford St. Mary, Wilts, are being refused leave in consequence of their refusal to be inoculated, although they consented to be vaccinated; if he is aware that on enlistment recruits are led to believe that inoculation is entirely a voluntary operation; and if he will take steps to prevent military authorities bringing pressure to bear upon men who decline to be inoculated?

Mr. TENNANT

I have had inquiry made and find that my hon. Friend has been misinformed. Men are not being refused leave in the Berkshire Regiment because they are uninoculated. In point of fact nearly 99 per cent, of the men in question are inoculated.

Mr. THORNE

If I send the right hon. Gentleman the information privately will that information be kept private so as to prevent a man or a number of men from being punished if it is made known?

Mr. TENNANT

Certainly, Sir.

Mr. THORNE

I will see you get it.