§ 45. Mr. MANDERasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that large numbers of people in this country have indicated their determination not to take part in any form of military service that is not based on the collective system of the League of Nations, he will consider the advisability of basing the functions of the Army, Navy, and Royal Air Force on carefully worked out plans for mutual support against aggression between members of the League?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Baldwin)No, Sir.
§ Mr. MANDERIf the Prime Minister is unaware of the facts to which I am referring, may I call his attention to some which are in my possession; and, if so, will he be good enough to consider them; because, unless public opinion receives much greater reassurance on this point than at present, we shall, in case of war, be a deeply divided nation?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am always glad to receive any information from the hon. Gentleman.
§ Mr. PETHERICKIs it not the case that the great majority of people in this country will go to war only in defence of Great Britain and the Empire?
§ Captain Sir WILLIAM BRASSHas the Prime Minister any information that this view is held by anyone?
§ 47. Mr. MABANEasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that, owing to the expense of entrance to and service in the commissioned ranks of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, and the low pay, limited prospects, and diminished opportunities on returning to civilian life of service in the non-commissioned ranks, whole strata of society have no direct connection with or representation in the personnel of all three Services; and whether he will, therefore, in order to make the Service more representative of all sections of society, propose measures which will lower the cost of commissioned service, improve the pay and prospects of non-commissioned service, and make promotion from non-commissioned to commissioned rank a reasonable ambition for any efficient soldier, sailor, or airman?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe conditions of service in His Majesty's Forces are constantly under review, but I do not agree that the position is as suggested by my hon. Friend. All three Services now afford full opportunities for advancement in all branches, and, as has been stated frequently in this House, qualified and recommended men who come forward are promoted to commissioned rank.