HC Deb 22 July 1919 vol 118 cc1138-9
12. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for War whether any Derby recruits are now on. draft for Egypt and the East, and, if so, how many?

Captain GUEST

Orders have been issued that no soldiers attested under Lord Derby's scheme who are not volunteers are to be sent oversea other than to France and Flanders and the Army of the Rhine.

Lieut-Commander KENWORTHY

Are any of them now in Egypt or on their way to Egypt?

Captain GUEST

The answer to the question is as explicit as the question itself.

15. Lieut.-Colonel Sir F. HALL

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that a considerable number of. soldiers who were conscripted towards the end of the War have long since been discharged from the Army, while men who voluntarily attested under the Derby scheme in 1915, and who were not called to the Colours until 1916 in consequence of their services not being required by the State until then, are refused demobilisation; and whether, considering that Peace-has now been signed with Germany, thus reducing the necessity for as many men. to be retained, he will at once take the necessary steps to release from service all the Derby men who attested in 1915?

Captain GUEST

The demobilisation of the Army has been carried out in accordance with the Regulations issued from time to time. With regard to the remainder of the question I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the Memorandum pub- lished on the 17th instant, which greatly enlarges the scope of the demobilisation Regulations.

Sir F. HALL

Does the hon. Gentleman recognise that the arrangements that have been come to, or supposed to have been come to, have not been entirely carried out, and hence the reason for this question, and are these men going to be re leased forthwith?

Captain GUEST

If the hon. and gallant Gentleman can give me a specific case where the Regulations have not been carried out it would be helpful.

Sir F. HALL

Is he aware that it is the case—at all events, some of those men who attested but did not join the Colours until quite late have been released, while men who joined early in 1916 are being retained?

Captain GUEST

That forms a general charge against the efficiency of the Regulations, and if the hon. and gallant Member will give me a specific case of hardship it will be very helpful.