§ 44. Mr. THURTLEasked the Secretary of State for War if he will take the necessary steps to prevent the enlistment of lads under the age of 18 without the consent of their parents?
§ Mr. SHAWUnder the Recruiting Regulations, a boy may not be enlisted as such without the written consent of his parents or guardians. As regards recruits presenting themselves for enlistment as men, there is a standing instruction that where there is the slightest suspicion that the recruit is under the age of 18 years, full inquiries are to be made before his enlistment is finally approved.
§ Mr. THURTLEWhen it is found that a lad under 18 years of age has enlisted by misrepresenting his age, will the right hon. Gentleman allow the parents un application afterwards to get him released?