HC Deb 26 August 1914 vol 66 c38
Mr. NORTON-GRIFFITHS

I beg to ask the Prime Minister whether, in view of the uncertainty which prevails in many parts of the country as to the causes of the War, and in view of the importance of a proper proportion of men volunteering for the defence of their country, he and the Leader of the Opposition will ask Members of this House to arrange for meetings in every constituency throughout the British Isles, so that the public may be enlightened?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Asquith)

Most excellent service has been rendered by Members of this House and by local political organisations in the work of giving information and arousing public attention to the necessity of raising recruits. I trust that there will be no slackening in these patriotic efforts, and that they may be carried on on a much more extended scale in the near future. My Noble Friend Lord Kitchener needs all the recruits that he can obtain.

Mr. LEE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is some misunderstanding owing to the terms of the notice calling for recruits as to the number which are required? There is a prevalent impression that 100,000 men are required, and that when they are obtained more are not necessary. Will the right hon. Gentleman take some steps to dispel that impression?

The PRIME MINISTER

That is a mistaken impression. I hope it will not get abroad. We want all the recruits we can get.