HC Deb 11 March 1919 vol 113 c1061
27. Colonel BURN

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will state his decision in the cases of young men in the Army who desire to be released in order that they may finish their apprenticeship, complete their course as students, or prepare for the Army or Civil Service examination?

Captain GUEST

Students and apprentices are being treated on the same footing as regards demobilisation as other soldiers. Their demobilisation is dependent on their being eligible under existing Regulations.

Colonel BURN

Does the hon. Gentleman not think it a very great hardship, in cases where premiums have been paid, that they are not allowed to finish the apprenticeship?

Captain GUEST

It is fully appreciated that there is hardship in some cases, but, when one starts on questions of the kind, one does not know where they would end.

Colonel BURN

Will young men who wanted to go up for examination at Sandhurst be allowed to do so?

Captain GUEST

I think the present system is the fairest all round.