HC Deb 09 March 1916 vol 80 cc1717-8
97. Sir J. LONSDALE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War if, whereas in England a soldier on active service can obtain a marriage licence on twenty-four hours' notice, in Ireland a week's notice is required before a licence can be obtained; and if he can take steps to ensure that Irish soldiers shall be given equal facilities to English soldiers in this respect?

Mr. TENNANT

I am informed that in every case of marriage in Ireland in which a licence is necessary the length of notice is fixed by Statute, which requires a period of not less than seven days to elapse between service of notice and grant of licence.

Sir J. LONSDALE

Why are the same facilities not afforded to soldiers in Ireland as they are in England?

Mr. TENNANT

Because the Statute does not provide for them.