HC Deb 14 April 1931 vol 251 c14
17. Mr. OSWALD LEWIS

asked the Secretary of State for War how far the total of all ranks serving at the end of May, 1929, fell short of the establishment at that time; and how far the present total of all ranks serving falls short of the present establishment?

Mr. SHAW

The deficiency on the establishment of the Regular Army at home, abroad and in India was approximately 5,800 on 1st June, 1929, and 8,300 on 1st March, 1931.

Mr. LEWIS

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell me how much greater the deficiency will have to be before he does something practical in the matter?

Mr. SHAW

I have already told the House that I am quite certain the Adjutant-General's Department knows its business and is doing its work as well as can be expected.