REDUCED AGE LIMIT

Auckland Star, Volume LXXII, Issue 180, 1 August 1941, Page 2

REDUCED AGE LIMIT

INSURANCE PROTECTION

(By Telegraph.—Parliamentary Reporter.) WELLINGTON, this day. A disclosure that the age limit of persons eligible for enrolment as members of an emergency precautions organisation might be abolished, was made by the Minister of National Service, Mr. Semple, in a written reply to a question in the House of Representatives yesterday. The point arose from a question asked by Mr. Lee (Democratic Labour, Grey Lynn), on behalf of Mr. Barnard (Democratic Labour Napier), whether the Minister could announce a decision in the matter of granting protection by way of war pensions or otherwise to bov scouts under 16 who were, or would be, doing national service as runners? He pointed out that the majority of boy scouts were under 16, and their parents were naturally anxious that where risks were being run at least equal to those being run by their seniors protection should be available.

After referring to the possible abolition of the age limit, Mr. Semple stated that this action would provide insurance protection for all persons legally enrolled as members of an emergency reserve corps organisation who might receive injuries in the course of officially recognised training or service.