37. Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSasked the Secretary of State for War how many men who enlisted voluntarily in Ireland during the years 1016, 1917, and 1918 for the duration of the War are still retained in the Army; and whether he is yet able to announce any decision as to their early release?
Captain GUESTI regret that I am unable to give the information asked for in the first part of my hon. and gallant 1086 Friend's question. As regards the last part, I would refer to my reply yesterday, in which I stated that it is proposed to grant a certain priority of demobilisation to those men, including Irishmen, who en listed voluntarily and joined the Colours subsequent to 31st December, 1914
§ Mr. HOGGEDoes the hon. and gallant Gentleman mean that men who enlisted voluntarily in this country are to wait until men who enlisted voluntarily in Ire land are released?
Captain GUESTNo; the reply is very definite to the extent that a cerain priority will be granted to these men, including Irishmen.
Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSHave not men in Ireland a very special case, as they did not enlist under any threat of compulsion?