§ Sir K. WOODasked the Secretary of State for War whether he has considered the question of the pensions of soldiers who have some years of boys' service to their credit but are refused a pension on the ground that the same cannot be considred in connection therewith; whether soldiers with 21 years' service three of which are in respect of boys' service, have to re-engage for a further period of three years in order to qualify for a pension; and whether he can take any action in the matter?
§ Mr. SHAWThe post-War pension regulations do not provide for the grant of service pension in respect of service before attaining the age of 18, hut no soldier with 21 years' service is refused a pension on the ground that part of that service was boy service. Soldiers with boy service are normally given the option of leaving the colours with a smaller pension after 21 years' total service or of remaining to complete 21 years' pensionable service. I see no reason for further action.