HC Deb 31 July 1951 vol 491 cc1178-9
34. Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Secretary of State for War the grounds on which he is satisfied that the fact that release by purchase during the first three months of attestation was in suspense was drawn to the attention of a young soldier, particulars of whom have been sent him; and whether he will reconsider his decision to refuse release to this man.

Mr. Strachey

Recruiting instructions require recruiting officers to make clear each clause in a soldier's attestation, and they are particularly careful to explain the present position as regards Clause 8. The recruiting officer has stated categorically that he never fails to comply with recruiting instructions, and I am therefore unable to accept the soldier's contention that, in his case, these instructions were not complied with.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Is it not a fact that, according to the letter sent to me by the right hon. Gentleman's Under-Secretary, the recruiting officer in this case could not recollect the interview at all; and in view of the fact that the form put before this young soldier specifically told him that he had the right of release by purchase within three months and contained no indication that that right was in suspense, does not he think that this comes precious near to sharp practice?

Mr. Strachey

No, Sir. The instructions are perfectly clear, and the recruiting officer is perfectly clear that he carried them out.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

No, he is not.

Mr. Strachey

I think that it is desirable—and this has now been arranged—that a printed slip should be placed on the attestation form which makes the position perfectly clear with regard to Clause 8.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Is not the fact that the form was not clear and the recruiting officer cannot recollect this case every reason for the right hon. Gentleman to give this young man the benefit of the doubt?

Mr. Strachey

No, Sir. This case is on all fours with other cases at that time, and the recruiting officer is perfectly certain that he carried out his instructions in this and all other cases.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek an opportunity to raise this question on the Adjournment, if the right hon. Gentleman is still there to answer it.