§ Mr. HAYDAYasked the Postmaster-General whether he has circularised men formerly employed by his Department advising them that men whose release has been specially asked for by the Post Office are not liable for compulsory retention in the Army of Occupation, and will not be allowed to volunteer for further service under any circumstances; and, if so, why such men are not only being compulsorily retained in the Army of Occupation, but in some cases being drafted to posts so remote that it will be difficult to relieve them?
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§ Mr. PEASEA Circular in the terms stated by the hon. Member was issued on the 4th March, but since that date it has become necessary to review the lists of men specially asked for by the Post Office and preference is now given, as far as possible, to men who are over thirty-seven years of age or who enlisted before 1st January, 1916. The allocation of the men to the various theatres of war is decided by the military authorities.