HC Deb 13 June 1939 vol 348 c1072
3. Mr. Henry Haslam

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that many men aged from 21 to 31 are debarred from serving in the Territorial Army by reason of the fact that their occupations preclude them from going into camp for training; that such men include those engaged in agriculture and in seasonal occupations and that numbers of these men are desirous of serving; and will he consider making arrangements so that these men can obtain the required training at other periods of the year than July and August?

Sir V. Warrender

The camping season for the Territorial Army this year, which began early in May, has now been extended to include October. Every effort is made to fix dates for camp so as best to suit the majority in the units, and intending recruits may be able, by making preliminary inquiries, to join a unit whose camp they could normally attend. Those men who cannot attend camp with their own units can apply to attend camp with other units, or to be attached to Regular units or depots, at a time more convenient to them and their employers.

Mr. Ede

Can the hon. Member say whether, when a man exercises the right to train with another unit some distance from his home, his railway fare is paid by the military authorities?

Sir V. Warrender

I should like to have notice of that question. I rather think it is.