[TO THE EDITOR OF THE " SPECTATOR.']
Sra,—The Spectator has given such consistent support to the Volunteer movement that I feel no hesitation in calling attention to one very serious consequence of the failure of the Government to pass Lord Lincolnshire's Bill. In certain parts of the country —for obvious reasons I give no particulars—the Volunteers have been asked by the responsible authorities to undertake the guarding of certain points of danger in case of emergency—e.g., in case of a Zeppelin raid. The Volunteers are quite ready to undertake the work, but there is a serious obstacle which can only be overcome by the passing of the Bill. A soldier or a special constable is adequately protected by the law from any consequence which may follow from action on his part when on duty. Yet the Volunteer has no legal status ; ho is absolutely un- protected from an action at common law for assault or for same more serious offence. In these circumstances is it fair to ask the Volunteers to undertake work of this nature, unless the authorities first guarantee them absolute immunity from all consequences which action on their part may entail ? The only remedy is the passing of Lord Lincolnshire's Bill on the earliest possible opportunity. • I venture to call your attention to this matter, because it affords a practical illustration of the anomalies of the present position of the Volunteers.—I am, Sir, &c.,
A COMPANY COMMANDER IN A V.T.C.
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