HC Deb 21 August 1916 vol 85 cc2293-4W
Mr. GLANVILLE

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in enrolling the Volunteer regiments, it is proposed to make any provision for medical officers for the various regiments, and, if so, what provision it is proposed should be made; and whether, in the scheme for Home defence, arrangements will be made for the utilisation of the services of those medical practitioners who have enrolled with the Volunteer regiments and who are precluded by age or physical unfitness from serving with the Royal Army Medical Corps abroad?

Mr. FORSTER

The question of the medical organisation of the Volunteer Force is now under consideration. It is hoped to take advantage of the offers of voluntary service made by medical practitioners in connection with the Volunteers.

Mr. GLANVILLE

asked the Secretary of State for War if the commandant of a Volunteer regiment can offer the services of his regiment to the War Office without the consent of the members of the regiment; and, if accepted by the War Office, can these regiments be used for foreign service?

Mr. FORSTER

Under paragraph 17 of the Volunteer Act of 1863 Volunteer officers and Volunteers, are liable to be called out for actual military service, only in Great Britain. Under the Volunteer Regulations they cannot be so called out unless invasion is held to be imminent, nor are they legally liable for any other duty. It is, of course, outside the power of the-commandant to extend the liability to service of any member of the force under his command.