§ 80. Mr. CLARRYasked the Secretary of State for War the dates when definite sanction was given to the cadets for their grants for the year 1925; if there has been any subsequent withdrawal; and, if so, upon what date?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSIt was announced in the Press on the 14th August last, that financial assistance not exceeding £15,000 a year would be given to the Territorial Cadet Force, but that the conditions governing the grants had not yet been -determined. The decision to hold back the grants was communicated to the Central Council of Territorial Associations in December. By that time, owing to the demand for drastic reductions of expenditure, it had become uncertain whether Army funds could continue to afford assistance to Cadets, and it would have been illogical and confusing to restart the grants only to discontinue them again in the following year. I am convinced of the value of the Cadet Force to the Territorial Army, and it was with the greatest reluctance that I took the step of holding back the grant. I am glad to be able to say that I have; now been able to arrange for the grants to be paid in the current year, and to be included in the Estimates for 1926–7.
§ Mr. THURTLEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a very strong feeling in the country against the militarisation of the schools of this country in this fashion?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON - EVANSNo, Sir, I am not aware that there is any feeling against the cadets.