Over the radio the War Minister added this:—The Government have decided on an experiment of far-reaching importance. It is this:—Soldiers of good character and efficiency about to complete their first term with the colours may extend their service and Section A and B reservists similarly may come back and rejoin the colours in both cases with a view to qualifying for pension.
The Army, like the Navy will thus become, to the extent to which the offer now made is accepted, a career. A serving soldier or reservist accepting this offer, will after 21 years total service, generally at about 40 years of age, become eligible for a pension for life.
Consider the meaning of. this offer:
I am told that one of the chief anxieties of the serving soldier has been his inability to continue in the profession which he has mastered. and likes. Under this offer his mind will be set at rest. He will know that the state will use his services normally till he has completed 21 years total service.
It is said that, as under the present system a soldier is bound to leave the Colours after a limited period. generally seven years, he cannot always find a job although he is 2 rood soldier. Well we are giving him a job in his own profession with a attached to it, and it will be a consolation to him to know that at the time of his discharge he will,
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.