HC Deb 25 February 1919 vol 112 cc1568-9
13. Commander BELLAIRS

asked the Secretary of State for Warin what way the discharge papers of conscientious objectors are marked in order to state faithfully the particular part they elected to play in the War?

Captain GUEST

In view of the fact that the men mentioned by my hon. and gallant Friend in his question are soldiers, their discharge certificates are completed in accordance with the King's Regulations.

37. Mr. CAPE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether George Thetford, No. 1790, No. 11th Eastern Non-Combatant Corps, has been seriously ill in hospital for thirteen weeks, and is at present at the Buffs'depot, Canterbury, awaiting court-martial; and whether, in view of the fact that the man has not yet recovered from pleurisy, he will release him from arrest?

Captain GUEST

As it appears from the hon. Member's question that the soldier concerned has been discharged from hospital, the statement that he has not yet recovered from pleurisy is not understood. I would remind the hon. Member that no soldier can be tried by court-martial unless in the opinion of the medical authorities he is fit to take his trial. In view of this fact, and of the provisions of Section 46 of the Army Act, the question of his release from arrest is not one in which I can properly intervene.