§ 89. Mr. THURTLEasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that, in the year 1921–22, out of 106,954 persons offering to enlist, 59,736, or 56 per cent., were rejected for physical reasons, whilst, in the year 1912-13 only 2'7 per cent. were so rejected; and whether he can give any reasons for the difference?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Walsh)The percentages of rejection are 56 per cent. and 27 per cent., not 21 per cent. The higher percentage of rejection in the later year is no doubt the effect of war conditions upon the physique of the population, but I am glad to say that the quality of the recruits now coming forward is steadily improving.
§ Mr. BUCHANANCan the right hon. Gentleman give us any idea of the reasons for the rejection? Is it on account of size, or physical deficiency?
§ Mr. WALSHI think the answer I have given and the figures contained in that answer reply to the hon. Member's question.
§ Mr. BUCHANANMy reason for putting the question was that I thought the right hon. Gentleman himself might be rejected on the question of size.