HC Deb 28 March 1944 vol 398 c1221
1. Mr. Liddall

asked the Secretary of State for War, whether he is aware that Territorials with 4½ years' service with anti-aircraft units have recently been transferred to infantry regiments; and why was not some choice allowed these men.

The Secretary of State for War (Sir James Grigg)

Such transfers are avoided if possible and only take place if they are necessary in the interests of the Service. In these circumstances, I regret that the men cannot be given an option not to transfer.

Mr. Liddall

Does not my right hon. Friend agree that a Territorial, who for years has voluntarily prepared himself for active service, should, at any rate, be afforded the same privilege as a conscientious objector—that of deciding in which branch he should serve?

Sir J. Grigg

I am sorry, but I can only repeat that at the present time the main need for the Army is infantry and that compulsory transfer from other arms must take place as necessary.