HC Deb 21 August 1916 vol 85 c2257
54. Colonel YATE

asked the Prime Minister whether it is proposed that postal and other Government servants who claim exemption from military service on grounds of conscientious objection conditionally on performing work of rational importance shall be excused from performing that work of national importance and allowed to remain on in their postal or other Government duties; and, if not, will he issue instructions that this is not to be permitted?

The PRIME MINISTER

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given him on behalf of the Postmaster-General on the 15th of this month. I understand that the Committee follows a similar policy in regard to all Government servants.

Colonel YATE

Is it right that men who refuse to raise a hand to defend their fellow countrymen in a great national danger should be allowed to sit quietly in the haven of Government offices?