§ Sir A. Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for War how many men desirous of extending their service in military units have been refused leave to do so during the past three years; and whether, in view of the present emergency, he will consider the effect on recruiting of the continued compulsory transfer to the reserve of men of good character who desire to remain in the Army?
Mr. CooperThe information asked for by my hon. and gallant Friend is not available at the War Office and could only be obtained, with a disproportionate expenditure of time and effort, by the perusal of individual soldiers' documents. The question of increasing the number of men who are permitted to extend their colour service is now engaging my attention.