§ 75. Mr. SHORTasked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been drawn to the case of Reginald Godfrey Webb, No. 52994, 14th Hussars; whether this young man on enlistment stated that he was nineteen years of age, although his actual age was only sixteen years; that he was induced to enlist whilst in London on holiday; that his mother has made repeated applications for his release; and whether, in view of the fact that Webb is only seventeen years of age now, he will give instructions for his immediate release?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThis case has already been considered, but the facts put forward did not justify the discharge of the soldier being authorised. In view of the statements made in the question, which vary in several important particulars with those previously alleged, I am having further inquiry made, and will inform the hon. Member of the result as soon as possible.
§ Mr. CLYNESIn the event of the facts being found to be in harmony with the statements in the question, will the right hon. Gentleman order the release of this soldier?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI would like to know what the actual facts are before giving an answer.
§ Mr. IRVINGIf the right hon. Gentleman is instituting a new rule, will he also apply it to others?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLIt is not a question of instituting any new rule. The only question is what is the interpretation of the present rule and that depends upon the actual facts. The facts are in dispute, and I am making further inquiries to make sure that the War Office facts are correct. It may be that the hon. Gentleman is correct