§ 8. Captain Macnamaraasked the Secretary of State for War the present shortage in the Regular and Territorial armies; and when he estimates these armies will reach full strength on their present establishments, taking the improved recruiting figures of the last three months as a basis?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaAs establishments are liable to alteration, neither significance nor accuracy could be attached to a calculation on the assumptions in the question. My hon. and gallant Friend might, however, be glad to have the following 1855 figures. If the establishment of the Regular Army had remained what it was in 1935 the strength to-day would be 96 per cent. of establishment. If the establishment of the Territorial Army had remained what it was in 1935, the strength to-day would be 90 per cent. of establishment. Meanwhile, owing to increases in establishments the Regular Army on 1st November was 19,619 short, and the Territorial Army 42,303 short.
§ Captain MacnamaraWould my right hon. Friend get into touch with the Home Office to arrange that any recruiting they may do for air-raid precautions does not adversely affect the Territorial Army?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaThe demands of the State on the man power of the nation are very considerable, and it is sought to coordinate them as far as possible.
Mr. De La BèreIs it a fact that the British Broadcasting Corporation does not encourage recruitment for the Territorials among its staff?