HC Deb 02 February 1937 vol 319 c1390
2. Mr. Bellenger

asked the Secretary of State for War whether serving soldiers undergoing vocational training before their return to civil life are required to make any financial contribution towards the cost of such training, and, if so, how much?

Mr. Cooper

Yes, Sir. The standard fees range from 5s. a week for a private or lance-corporal to 10s. a week for a warrant officer, Class I, with half rates for courses in dairy, general or pig farming.

Mr. Bellenger

Has the right hon. Gentleman this question under review, with the object of doing away with these charges and thereby making the Service more attractive?

Mr. Cooper

Yes, Sir. The question is under review.

Mr. Shinwell

Ought not the training to be reckoned as part of the remuneratory service rendered by the State to the soldiers, who have themselves rendered service to the State?

Mr. Cooper

That is another way of putting it.