HC Deb 29 February 1916 vol 80 c869
18. Sir JOSEPH WALTON

asked whether numbers of soldiers who are being employed on the lines of communication in manual labour could be replaced by native labour, and thus increase the number of our combatant soldiers?

Mr. TENNANT

I think the disadvantages of using non-Europeans on the lines of communication are considerable, and that this course is unnecessary. Men employed in manual labour on the lines of communication are found in existing circumstances from men unfit for combatant service, and it will shortly be possible, I hope, to employ conscientious objectors in setting free any men fit for combatant service who may at present be employed on non-combatant duties.