§ 36. Captain Pluggeasked the Home Secretary what steps have been taken to ensure that the calling up for National Service of members of the Auxiliary Fire Service and Air-Raid Precautions Staffs does not interfere with the efficiency of these services; and what is the present position with regard to the reserved age for persons in the Auxiliary Fire Service and Air-Raid Precautions Staff?
§ Sir J. AndersonArrangements have been made whereby local fire authorities may in certain cases apply for deferment of the calling up of men aged 25 to 27 years of age now serving as whole-time members of the Auxiliary Fire Service, to enable the authorities to recruit and train older men to replace them. The reserved age for whole-time members of the 879 Auxiliary Fire Service is 30 years. As regards other A.R.P. Services, local authorities have been advised that with a view to securing stability new male entrants should generally be over 40 years of age or, in certain special cases particularly in the first-aid parties and rescue parties, not less than 35 years of age. There is at present no general reservation of men in the A.R.P. general services, but this matter is being kept under close review with particular reference to the requirements of the first-aid and rescue services.
§ Mr. R. C. MorrisonWhat is the age limit at the other end? If a man is over 60 and apparently fit and well, can he give his services?
§ Sir J. AndersonI believe that in some of the services there is no upper age limit.