HC Deb 14 June 1938 vol 337 cc12-3
17. Mr. Rathbone

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he has any further statement to make about the formation of a women's Territorial Army?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Arrangements and discussions are proceeding with certain organisations, and, as soon as I am in a position to do so, I shall announce the result.

Mr. Sorensen

Will the women who may he members of the women's Territorial Army receive training in the art of dropping bombs on other women and their children?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

The intention of the Territorial Army is to prevent the dropping of bombs on our women and children.

Mr. Sorensen

Do I understand that there will not be any women engaged in the art of war?

Mr. R. C. Morrison

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the local authorities are appealing to women to take part in air-raid precautions work, and will he do his best to see that there is no duplication in the appeal which it is proposed to make?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Yes, Sir. Everyone is appealing to women, but every effort will be made, as usual, to see that offers are used in the best possible direction.

Mr. Thorne

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether women appeal to him?

Mr. C. S. Taylor

Is the hon. Member who asked a previous supplementary question a member of the Territorial Army, or does he expect women to fight for him?