§ 34. Mr. George Griffithsasked the Secretary of State for War how many substandard recruits to the Regular Army at the physical training depots have been, or are, receiving nourishment in addition to the ordinary Army food; the weekly cost of this food per man; of what the extra nourishment consists; the average weekly cost per recruit of the extra nourishment; the number of recruits posted as fit as a result of this extra food; and the average period required to bring these recruits up to standard.
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaUp to 16th July last, a total of 2,918 recruits had joined the depots. Of this number, 2,168 had been posted to units as fit, 380 were still undergoing training, while 204 had been discharged as having failed to attain the required standard and 166 for other causes. The average period spent at the depots is nine weeks. An extra amount of 2½d. a day is allowed for each recruit, and this is expended on milk and fruit; otherwise, the diet is the same as for the regular soldier.
§ Mr. BellengerAm I correct in saying that there are now only two depots?
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaYes, Sir.
§ Mr. G. GriffithsAre these men to be classed as A.1 on 2½d. a day? You are doing fine.
§ Mr. Hore-BelishaThis is an extra allowance over and above the ration of food itself, which is very good.