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The Committee notes that the Government's report contains no reply to its previous comments. It hopes that the next report will include full information on the following matters raised in its previous direct request:

1. The Committee noted in relation to section 53 of the Defence Act, 1954, the Government's information that persons enlisted in the defence forces at an age lower than 18 years have no option to terminate their service unilaterally on reaching that age. Regulations prescribe minimum periods of enlistment which differ on the basis of the nature of the employment selected: general service, apprentice/technician, army, naval service, etc. The Government indicated that enlisted personnel might purchase their discharge. The Committee again requests the Government to indicate at what age and under which pecuniary conditions a person enlisted as a minor may purchase his freedom.

2. With reference to its previous comments concerning sections 47(6) and 49(2) of the same Act, the Committee hopes that the Government will indicate in future reports any changes which may occur in the provisions concerned or in the manner of their application.