§ 29. Mr. THOMASasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that obstacles are being put in the way of men desirous of joining a particular regiment, even though they hold papers of acceptance from the unit desired, and that they are being compelled to join the local regiment; and, in view of the promise given in connection with Lord Derby's scheme that the men's choice would be respected as far as possible, whether he will see that this is carried out both in spirit and letter?
§ Mr. TENNANTYes, Sir, I will see that the promise given, which was that choice of a particular unit would be respected as far as possible, is given effect to, and I will ask my hon. Friend to be good enough to furnish me with any definite instances of departure from this undertaking which may have come to his notice.
§ Mr. PRINGLEIs my right hon. Friend aware that recruiting officers say they are not bound by what he says in this House?
§ Mr. TENNANTIf my hon. Friend will give instances I will have them investigated.
§ Sir G. YOUNGERWill the right hon. Gentleman permit me to bring to his notice one or two very serious cases in Scotland, where men have been forced into regiments other than those for which they had expressed a preference?
§ Mr. TENNANTIf my hon. Friend will bring them to my notice I will certainly have them investigated.