HC Deb 09 July 1940 vol 362 cc1061-3
21. Sir A. Knox

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been drawn to the case of Gunner Raymond Cornelius, who, following a refusal to continue his Army training, has been recommended by the Conscientious Objectors' Appellate Tribunal in London for discharge from the Army; and whether he will consider the effect of such action on the discipline of the Army, and take the appropriate action?

Mr. Eden

This case was dealt with as prescribed in Section 13 of the National Service (Armed Forces) Act, 1939. The tribunal have decided that, on discharge from the Army, the man must do full-time ambulance work under civil control, or land work.

Sir A. Knox

Did this man apply for registration as a conscientious objector before he joined up? Surely it is rather late for him, when he is given an order that he does not wish to obey, to say that he has a conscientious objection?

Mr. Eden

This type of case is covered by the National Service (Armed Forces) Act. My only task, as my hon. and gallant Friend will appreciate, is to administer that Act.

Sir A. Knox

Surely it is rather late for a man to say that he has conscientious objections when he gets an order that he does not wish to obey? All discipline would be at an end if that sort of thing continued.

Mr. Eden

This man was sentenced to six months' imprisonment, without hard labour, for refusing to go on parade. Therefore, the Act applies in the sense that I have mentioned. I have no discretion whatever but to administer the Act.

Commander Sir Archibald Southby

Has the man served his sentence?

Mr. Eden

Not yet. The earliest date for his release is 18th July.

27. Sir R. Young

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has completed his inquiries into the statement of a conscientious objector to the Bristol tribunal that he was paid nine weeks' wages for which he had done no work; and, if so, what action has been taken regarding the man, the foreman and the contracting firm concerned?

Mr. Eden

I have been unable to check the accuracy of the statement, as neither the man nor his foreman is now in the employment of the contractor's firm in question. I am endeavouring to obtain particulars.