§ 20. Mr. RAPERasked the Secretary of State for War if he will give instructions for prompt and effective steps being taken to trace the many men who have so far dishonestly evaded military service, also the men who deserted on their first leave and were not then rounded up, with a view to their replacing men in the Services who have faithfully carried out their duties during the War?
Captain GUESTThe tracing of men who have evaded military service is a matter that still falls to the Ministry of National Service to deal with. As regards deserters, the provisions of the King's Regulations (paragraphs 514 and 515) have been strictly carried out. My hon. Friend is no doubt aware that the apprehension of deserters is primarily a matter for the civil police, once the names of the deserters have been notified by their commanding officer. It should be borne in mind that even if these men were traced 1050 and called up they would not be in a position to replace men serving with the Armies of Occupation until they have received the necessary military training.