§ 34. Mr. Swinglerasked the Secretary of State for War to what extent length of service is taken into account in the selection of Z reservists of the Royal Artillery for call-up for training.
§ Mr. HeadThe principle of last out, first back is always taken into account; but suitability for particular jobs and geographical considerations must often override this principle. Furthermore, the Royal Artillery is particularly short of younger reservists.
§ Mr. SwinglerIf the policy of last out, first back, is always taken into account, why is the Officer-in-Charge of Royal Artillery Records sending out letters to gunner reservists saying that it is not taken into account in the Royal Artillery on the ground that every Royal Artillery reservist will be required on mobilisation, and therefore it does not matter? Will he look into this question so as to see that the policy applies to the Royal Artillery as to other branches?
§ Mr. HeadIt does apply to all units in the British Army, and if the hon. Gentleman will show me any concrete evidence that it is being contravened I will put this right at once.