§ Sir HENRY HARRISasked the Secretary of State for War whether boys enlisted in Army bands are sent to India under the age of sixteen; and, if so, whether he will give instructions that they are not to be sent there until they are of an age to endure the climate and conditions of life?
Captain GUESTBand boys over the age of fifteen are eligible to be drafted to India during the trooping season. This was the pre-war policy, arrived at after the most careful consideration and with the concurrence of the medical authorities. These boys are not called upon to perform men's duties, and I am satisfied that there is no danger to their health.