text_body: --- DIVISION TITLE ---
  
  Armed Forces Bill - Clause 8 - Desertion
  
  --- MOTION EFFECT ---
  
  <p>The noes regected a motion to amend section 8 of the <a
  href="http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200506/cmbills/094/06094.5-11.html#j04a116">Armed
  Forces Bill</a> to reduce the maximum length of imprisonment for disertion from
  life to two years.</p>
  
  <p>The sentence of life for disertion is only applicable if a person (who is
  under service law) is absent without leave, to avoid, when participating in or
  when under orders to commit a 'relevant service', otherwise the maximum
  imprisonment is two years.</p>
  
  <p>In this context "relevant service" means--
  <ul>
  <li> actions or operations against an enemy;</li>
  <li> operations outside the British Islands for the protection of life or
  property; or</li>
  <li> military occupation of a foreign country or territory.</li>
  </ul>
  </p>
  
  <p><i> The Committee divided:</i> Ayes 19, Noes 442.</p> 
  --- COMMENTS AND NOTES ---
  
  (put thoughts and notes for other researchers here)
  