HC Deb 03 December 1946 vol 431 cc46-7W
95. Commander Galbraith

asked the Secretary of State for War to what extent men in good physical condition who have asked to remain in the Army are having their applications refused on account of age and what is the age limit.

Mr. Bellenger

Regular soldiers may remain on in the Service, after completing their current engagement, subject to the normal Regular Army rules for extension of service or re-engagement.

Non-Regular soldiers may re-enlist on Regular engagements if they are under 30. If over 30 they may enlist for Short Service engagements provided they are fit and there are vacancies in their Corps or trade. If they are between 40 and 57 and are non-commissioned officers they may engage for extra regimental employment only, or if between 50 and 57, for service with the Polish Resettlement Corps. A few men who apply cannot be accepted because they do not satisfy these conditions but no man under 57 is rejected on grounds of age alone.