asked the Secretary of State for War how many applications for discharge by purchase have been received since 1952; how many have been granted; and what is the total sum paid.

Since 1st January, 1953, discharge has been approved in 1,409 cases and receipts up to 31st December, 1953, were about £38,000. All qualified applicants were granted discharge except for 76 cases of deferment for six months or less: these were mostly bandsmen.