§ 27. Colonel YATEasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether, considering the danger of putting loaded rifles in the hands of young and untrained recruits, he will consider the question of prohibiting untrained men from being posted on guard duties with loaded rifles, and arrange that in future, when trained and experienced soldiers are not locally available, National Reservists shall be called in for such duties?
§ Mr. TENNANTIt is, of course, necessary, as the hon. and gallant Member will realise, that guards should be armed. It is not customary to employ untrained men on such duties, and National Reservists are now employed to the fullest extent that the number available permits.
§ Colonel YATEDoes not the right hon. Gentleman know that it often happens when drafts have been sent out from Reserve regiments that there are not trained troops left; does he consider the danger there is in taking up untrained men and putting loaded rifles in their hands, with probable consequent casualties?
§ Mr. TENNANTIt is, of course, realised that that would be a great danger, but it is avoided, I think, in nearly every case.
§ Colonel YATENot in the cases I have heard of.
§ Mr. TENNANTPerhaps the hon. and gallant Gentleman will give me specific details of any cases that he has in his mind.