HC Deb 05 May 1919 vol 115 cc590-1
77. Mr. MOSLEY

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that men over forty-one years of age who are now on leave in this country are under orders to return to Russia at the expiration of their leave; whether this represents the considered policy of the War Office; and, if not, whether he will order the demobilisation of these men and the retention of younger men to take their place?

Mr. FORSTER

As active operations are still in progress in Russia, all men on leave from that theatre must return on the expiration of their leave.

Lieutenant - Colonel Lord HENRY CAVENDISH - BENTINCK

How does that square with the declaration of the Secretary of State for War that no man shall be sent to Russia except voluntarily?

Mr. FORSTER

I do not see that it cuts across that at all. It does not seem to me to matter whether he is a conscript or volunteer. The question is whether he is or is not on leave.

Mr. KENNEDY JONES

Is it a fact that men over forty-one years of age are being compelled, when home on leave, to return to Russia?

Mr. FORSTER

Men serving in Russia volunteer to go there. They come back to this country from time to time on leave. Obviously it is their business to go back at the expiration of their leave.

Major CAYZER

Will men over thirty-seven years of age have to go back to Russian in order to be demobilised?

Mr. FORSTER

The hon. and gallant Member seems to forget that these men are volunteers.

Mr. DEVLIN

Will the right hon. Gentleman say what they are doing in Russia at all?