§ 16. Mr. Douglas-Mannasked the Minister of State for Defence what provisions exist for persons who had entered engagements to serve in Her Majesty's Forces before attaining the age of 18 years to terminate such engagements on attaining that age; and what changes have been introduced consequent upon the reduction of the age of majority from 21 years to 18 years.
Mr. BakerThere is no provision to terminate the engagement at age 18, but those who enter as juniors may opt to shorten their engagement when they reach the age of 18. The engagement structure for juniors is based on the recommendations of the Donaldson Committee (Cmnd. 4509) which took account of the reduction of the age of majority.