§ 7. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for War why a similar provision for registrants for National Service to claim conscientious objection to military service does not also operate in respect of any young man reaching the age of 18 years, who originally enlisted in boys' battalions at the age of 15 years; and, approximately, how many are now serving in the battalions.
§ Mr. HeadThe point raised in the first part of this Question was given long consideration by the Select Committee on the Army Act and Air Force Act and it is dealt with in paragraph 6 of their Second Report. The Committee recommended that a Member of the Army Council or the Air Council should deal administratively with any case that might arise. This in fact is already being done. There are at present 4,666 boys in the Regular Army, of whom 324 are in the Infantry Boys' Battalion.
§ Mr. SorensenI am aware of that, but does it not deprive citizens of this country of certain rights? In view of the fact that these lads join at a very early age and the number of conscientious objectors will be very small, is it not an unwise departure from a principle generally applicable to all young men of the country?
§ Mr. HeadNo such case has so far arisen in respect of young boys. On the question of legislation, the Select Committee found that the proposed clauses were of great complexity. They considered the matter carefully and I think that any case that arises will be dealt with, fairly and generously, administratively within the Department concerned.