HC Deb 16 March 1937 vol 321 cc1832-3
26. Mr. Day

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can give particulars of the result of the Government's efforts during the previous 12 months to obtain recruits for the Regular Army; whether the numbers obtained during that period are up to what is generally called standard; can he give the strength of the Army at home as at the latest ascertainable date; and the total strength of same for the corresponding date of the previous year?

Mr. Cooper

During the 12 months ended February, 1937, 23,055 recruits were obtained for the Regular Army. This number was below average as compared with the preceding five years. The strength of the Army at Home on 1st March, 1937, was 95,914, as compared with 88,48o on 1st March, 1936.

Mr. Day

Are these figures what the Government regard as a minimum?

Mr. Cooper

No, they are below what the Government regard as a minimum.