HC Deb 05 December 1939 vol 355 c437
72. Mr. Woodburn

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the importance and value of character and experience, he is now prepared to enlist or otherwise use the services of men over the present military age who are passed fit in every way, who are qualified by military training, and have served in past wars, and who are anxious to serve in the present emergency?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Men are now accepted for enlistment into the Auxiliary Military Pioneer Corps and Home Defence Battalions up to the age of 50. In addition, officers in charge of records have authority to enlist ex-service men up to the age of 57 for instructional and certain administrative posts such as cooks, clerks, and storemen.