HC Deb 31 October 1939 vol 352 cc1725-6
19. Sir Annesley Somerville

asked the Secretary of State for War what changes he has in view in the constitution and training of Officers Training Corps at public schools?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Officers Training Corps are still in existence, but the part which they can in future play in relation to national service as a whole is being examined.

Sir A. Somerville

Before any decisions are reached will there be full consultation with the schools, in view of the value of this Corps to the schools in matters of discipline and sense of responsibility?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

I will try to bear in mind the valuable suggestion of my hon. Friend.

Major-General Sir Alfred Knox

Will he also bear in mind that the Officers Train- ing Corps have produced several excellent officers for the Army in the past and will do so in the future if not tampered with?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

Yes, I am sure that is true, but now that system has to fit in with our general scheme.