HC Deb 09 December 1952 vol 509 c233
29. Mr. Gower

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will raise the age at which National Service men may be posted on active service abroad.

Mr. Head

No, Sir.

Mr. Gower

First, will my right hon. Friend keep the matter constantly under review? Second, will some proper distinction be drawn in judging the issue, between time of technical peace and time of total war?

Mr. Head

At present we have about 11⅓ divisions, l0⅓ of which are overseas. The present system has been very carefully thought out, and I believe it to be fair, and we could not alter it without very considerable embarrassment.