HC Deb 24 November 1942 vol 385 c651
35. Mr. Davidson

asked the Secretary of State for War whether his Department has now a definite fixed policy regarding the age at which a soldier can be sent on foreign service?

Sir J. Grigg

A soldier is not sent overseas until he is 19. This is the limit observed when whole units are sent abroad. Soldiers are, however, not usually sent overseas in drafts until they reach the age of 19½.

Mr. Davidson

If cases are submitted to the right hon. Gentleman concerning boys under that age and men of 47 years of age, will they be treated sympathetically by the War Office?

Sir J. Grigg

I will certainly look into them.

Mr. Cocks

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that I have in my pocket particulars of the case of a lad of 18 years of age who was sent abroad? Will he look into such cases?

Sir J. Grigg

I have said that I will.

Mr. McGovern

If a boy under 19 years of age is sent overseas and attention is drawn to the matter, will the right hon. Gentleman have the boy brought back?

Sir J. Grigg

I should require notice of that Question.

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