§ 74. Mr. M. Lindsayasked the Secretary of State for War why a former soldier, particulars about whom have been sent to him, was discharged with a good character, when he had served a sentence of 18 months' imprisonment after conviction by court-martial of theft and desertion; and whether he will take steps to ensure that such a thing does not occur again so that the value of Army discharge characters will not fall into disrepute.
§ Mr. F. MacleanThis was a mistake. It occurred at a period when large numbers of men were being discharged from war-time service. I am satisfied that everything practicable is now done to ensure the accuracy of Army discharge certificates.