§ Mr. Burkeasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will state the number of young men under 20 years of age who have been sent overseas; and the average length of training given to these youths?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaI regret that the information asked for is not available.
§ Mr. Kirkwoodasked the Secretary of State for War how many boys of under 20 years of age are now serving overseas; and how many of these when under 19 years of age were withdrawn from the forces preparing to go overseas?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaI regret that the information asked for is not available.
§ Mr. Leslieasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that high medical authority condemned the sending of immature youths into the battle front in the Great War, and that adult soldiers were greatly disturbed by the unnerving conduct of lads under 21 years of age, he will consider the advisability of retaining for home service all young soldiers until they have reached the age of manhood?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaI would refer the hon. Member to the Debate which took place on 3rd September last and to the statement which I then made. No man is sent to serve with the Expeditionary Force unless he is medically fit.