HC Deb 29 September 1942 vol 383 cc660-1
34. Sir Douglas Hacking

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he can now state the results of his review of the adequacy of existing Army cadet grants?

Sir J. Grigg

No, Sir, but I hope to be able to do so shortly.

Sir D. Hacking

In view of the fact that it is now four months since I drew the attention of my right hon. Friend to this matter, will he tell me when he can give me a decision?

Sir J. Grigg

I cannot say beyond "shortly."

41. Sir William Davison

asked the Secretary of Sate for War what is the authorised establishment for Army cadets in Great Britain; and what is the total enrolment?

Sir J. Grigg

The authorised establishment of the Army Cadet Force is 175,000. 154,056 cadets had enrolled by the end of July of this year, and it is estimated that this number has now increased to about 172,000.

Sir W. Davison

In view of the fact that the enrolment of cadets outside London has not reached the establishment and that the small number of 4,500, which is the establishment in London, was reached some time ago, would it not be possible to enlarge the establishment for London owing to the fact that some of the establishments have not been reached in the country?

Sir J. Grigg

I think I told my hon. Friend before the Recess that that is precisely the question I am now considering.

Sir Joseph Lamb

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there are large numbers of youths in various constituencies who have been refused because the ceiling is very low, and is it not desirable that they should be given the opportunity of training and learning discipline?

Sir J. Grigg

The same answer applies to that Question. The whole question of the ceiling is at present under consideration but, as I said on the last occasion, it is no good making a vast increase in the ceiling if the uniform and arms cannot be provided.

Sir W. Davison

Is not the total of 4,500 an absurd ceiling for London, and will steps be taken to increase this number as soon as possible, so that it will no longer be necessary to refuse to enrol many boys anxious to become Army cadets?

Sir J. Lamb

What objection could there be to giving them a brassard and a hat?