§ 99. Mr. PRINGLEasked whether men of the Army Veterinary Corps who have been many months in the Service without receiving leave are now being sent abroad, and leave is refused to them to visit their families, while jockeys who have recently joined are at once made corporals, and are given leave to ride at Newmarket?
§ Mr. FORSTERI do not think that the facts are as stated in the first part of this question, but if my hon. Friend will send me particulars of any case it will be inquired into. No jockey has been promoted on account of his calling, but they have been given promotion in their turn with other men according to their abilities. In one case a jockey has been permitted to fulfil an engagement at the recent New market Meeting. This engagement was entered into prior to the man being posted to the Army Veterinary Corps, and the needs of the Service were not affected thereby. He will proceed abroad in his turn, but no objection is taken by the military authorities to either officers or men riding in races provided it in no way interferes with their military training or drills.
§ Mr. ASHLEYWill the hon. Member state whether this jockey was riding for the Government stable?
§ Mr. FORSTERNo, Sir.
§ Mr. PRINGLEWas he riding for the Under—Secretary for War?