HC Deb 21 February 1916 vol 80 cc412-4
37. Major NEWMAN

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether special constables who, in pursuance of their duties might be called on to injure or to take human life, are now claiming exemption from military service on conscientious grounds; and what ruling can he give in this for the guidance of local tribunals?

Mr. LONG

I am not aware of cases of the kind mentioned by my hon. and gallant Friend. Any application for exemption on conscientious grounds must be considered on its merits in accordance with the Regulations.

38. Major NEWMAN

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether his attention has been drawn to a postcard issued by the Fellowship of Reconciliation asking sympathisers with their movement to attend the sittings of local tribunals and encourage by their presence those claiming to be exempt from military service on conscientious grounds; whether he is aware that similar efforts were made in Australia to incite and encourage young men to disobey the law of compulsory military training; and what action he proposes to take?

Mr. LONG

My attention has not been drawn to the postcard to which reference is made. As stated in the reply to the previous question, each case will have to be considered on its merits.

39. Major NEWMAN

asked the President of the Local Government Board whether his attention has been drawn to a minute of the yearly meeting of the Society of Friends held on 28th January and largely circulated, urging that young men who were not conscientious objectors but who were held back by a restraining influence which they would find it impossible to give expression to should be supported in their refusal to serve; and whether, in view of the treatment accorded to the Society of Friends in the Military Service Act, he will take action to strengthen the position of local tribunals in dealing with claims for exemption of this nature?

Mr. LONG

I have seen the minute to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers. I do not think I can go further in advising local tribunals than I have in the Circular which I issued on the 3rd instant.

Mr. EDMUND HARVEY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the statement made in the question entirely misrepresents the minute in question? I hold the minute in my hand, and it in no way bears out what appears to be the interpretation put upon it in the question.

Mr. LONG

That has nothing to do with me.

Major NEWMAN

I, too, have the minute in my hand.