HC Deb 18 June 1918 vol 107 c153
60. Mr. SNOWDEN

asked the Minister of National Service whether, in view of the wording of the Second Schedule, Section 2, of the Proclamation issued on 4th June, he will give an assurance that boys who attain the age of eighteen after the Proclamation came into force will have the right to make an appeal for exemption on the grounds specified in paragraphs (c) and (d) of Sub-section (1) of Section 2 of the Military Service Act, 1916?

Sir A. GEDDES

The point raised by the hon. Member is one which affects the construction of the Act and the Proclamation, and as such can only be decided authoritatively by a Court of law. I am advised, however, that youths who attain the age of eighteen after the Proclamation came into force have, in fact, the right to appeal for exemption on the grounds referred to in the question.

Mr. SNOWDEN

Why should it be necessary for this important matter to be settled in a Court of law when the Act of Parliament is so explicit that all who come under these Military Service Acts have a right of appeal for exemption?

Sir A. GEDDES

The authoritative interpretation of any Act of Parliament must rest with the Courts of law. I am advised, and I believe it to be correct, that youths who attain the age of eighteen after the Proclamation came into force, have in fact the right of appeal for exemption on the grounds stated in the question.

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