§ 17. Captain PLUGGEasked the Secretary of State for War whether he has any information showing whether there is a better supply of recruits in those regiments, such as the Guards, which provide a smart walking-out kit for soldiers, as opposed to those regiments the ranks of which are only provided with a khaki uniform?
Mr. COOPERRecruiting is undoubtedly better for the Foot Guards than for the Infantry, but I do not think this can be attributed solely to the possession of full dress uniform. As a stimulant to recruiting generally, permission has recently been given for men of all regiments to "walk out" in blue uniform with coloured forage cap, and I am hoping that this, in conjunction with other measures that are being taken, will lead to the desired improvement in recruiting.
§ Mr. SHINWELLDoes the right hon. Gentleman think the kind of speech he made yesterday is calculated to stimulate recruitment?
§ Mr. SHINWELLIs it not time the right hon. Gentleman stopped playing the role of bogy man?
Mr. COOPERI think it is time the Labour party made up its mind whether it wishes to encourage recruitment or discourage it.
§ Mr. THURTLEDoes the right hon. Gentleman wish the unemployed workers of this country to be coerced into the Army by hunger?
§ 18. Captain PLUGGEasked the Secretary of State for War what has been the expenditure on Press advertising during the past two years in order to stimulate Army recruiting; and whether he will consider the extended use of this medium to make up present deficiencies?
Mr. COOPERApproximately £3,500 was expended from Army funds on Press advertising for recruiting purposes, during the two years ended 31st March last. While I appreciate the value of this particular medium, and will not fail to bear in mind my hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion, I do not at present propose to extend the use of Press advertising until greater experience has been gained of this and other forms of recruiting publicity now in operation.