asked the Secretary of State for War, in view of the need to enlist recruits before they are absorbed by industry, what study he has made of the possibility of lowering to 16½ years the age at which recruits can join the Army.

I have considered the possibility of lowering the age at which recruits can join the Army for man's service, but I have concluded that 17½ is the earliest age at which a young man should be allowed to accept the full responsibilities of a soldier. Recruits under 17½ are accepted for boys service and are trained in boys units or schools where they can be properly supervised and accommodated.