HC Deb 04 August 1939 vol 350 cc2816-7
15. Mr. Ede

asked the Secretary of State for War, when the reconstitution of the North Irish Horse Light Tank Unit of the Royal Armoured Corps will have proceeded far enough to enable recruiting to be opened.

Sir V. Warrender

It is hoped to start recruiting in about two months' time.

Mr. Ede

Does not the hon. Gentleman think that it is very disastrous that all these youths in Ulster, having been denied the benefit of conscription, cannot enlist for another two months?

Sir V. Warrender

The necessary administrative arrangements have to be made.

Mr. Ede

Did not the Prime Minister when he announced that he could not apply conscription to Ulster, make it clear that, at the earliest possible date, these people were to be given more opportunities for enlistment than English people?

Sir V. Warrender

We are making arrangements as fast as possible.

Mr. Ede

Is it at this rate that you hope to win the next war?